Leeds United are keeping tabs on Southampton in the fight to avoid relegation in view of a transfer for Che Adams. The striker is a likely target for the Elland Road outfit this summer.
That is according to Pete O’Rourke, who reports that Leeds’ long-term interest in Adams is yet to wane. The Whites have admired what the 26-year-old would offer in West Yorkshire for years. But Southampton have always proven reluctant to let the striker leave St Mary’s.
Yet Leeds may see their chances of finally signing Adams increase this season if they avoid relegation at Southampton’s expense. The Whites and Saints are engulfed in a scrap at the bottom of the table to avoid falling out of the Premier League with 12 matches left to play.
Leeds United could target Che Adams if Southampton endure relegation
Southampton sit at the bottom of the table through 26 games but are only a point behind Leeds in 19th. West Ham United are also only two points clear of the Saints for 17th place. Nine teams are in the scrap with Crystal Palace in 12th three points clear of the drop zone.
Should Leeds climb out of the bottom three but Southampton fall into the Championship, Whites chiefs are pondering a new pursuit of Adams’ transfer. The £52k-a-week star, who Ally McCoist has called ‘terrific’, may face an uncertain future with his contract up in 2024.
Southampton awarded Adams a five-year contract when he joined from Birmingham City for £15m in July 2019. The 26-year-old has since scored 30 and assisted 15 goals through 140 games for the club. His haul includes nine goals in 30 outings this term in all competitions.
Adams has not scored in the Premier League since November 12, however. He registered his fourth goal in the top-flight this term at Liverpool after efforts at Leicester City (2) and AFC Bournemouth. But he has gone nine appearances without finding the back of the net.
Why did Leeds United not sign Che Adams during the January window?
Leeds explored signing Adams from Southampton in a last-ditch transfer right at the end of the January window, per talkSPORT. But the Saints had absolutely no interest in letting the striker go amid a relegation fight. Their refusal also frustrated Everton’s interest in a move.
Everton and Leeds also looked to secure a deal with Southampton for Adams’ transfer last summer. The Sun reported that the Whites were lining up a £10m offer. While The Athletic noted that the Toffees targeted a loan-to-buy deal. But The Times cited a £25m price tag.
Southampton enduring relegation to the Championship and Adams only having a year left on his contract could now see Leeds secure a cut-price transfer if they stay up. But the 26-year-old could attract further interest if the Saints feel forced to accept a discounted sum.
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