Phil Hay has told his Athletic podcast that Leeds United will only make another signing before Thursday’s deadline, if Dan James leaves the club – amid reports that both Tottenham and Everton want the Welshman in the coming days.
James, 24, has endured a slow start to life at Elland Road. Joining the club for a huge £25million from Manchester United last summer, he has only found the back of the net four times in 39 games. Just five assists have been added.
Last week, surprise reports emerged that James was the subject of interest from Tottenham. Fabio Paratici is said to be a big fan of the Wales international, with a £20million loan-to-buy bid being considered. But nothing has come of yet.
Now, Fabrizio Romano reports that Everton and Tottenham are in talks to land James. Hay says Leeds are unlikely to sign any more players to add to their previous eight deals this summer – but a ninth will come in, if James departs.
“If James was to go then absolutely I would expect someone to come in. From the noises over the weekend, my gut feeling is Leeds may go over the deadline of the window without anything happening,” Hay told his Athletic podcast.
Leeds will only make signing if James leaves; Tottenham and Everton keen
It would be a surprise if James left. Not least, because he was excellent in the 3-0 win over Chelsea and does suit Jesse Marsch’s system. However, Luis Sinisterra looks as if he will be first choice on the right, after replacing Raphinha.
Jack Harrison, without doubt, is the club’s first-choice on the left. So, James might have to settle with being first reserve. Getting game time in the Cup competitions and coming off the bench in the Premier League.
A move to Tottenham would be hard to turn down – but he would only be back-up. Champions League football is on offer, though. Everton would see him get much more game time. But right now, it looks as if he will remain at Leeds.
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