Leeds United are hoping to bring former loanee Kyle Bartley back to Elland Road this summer.
Bartley spent last season on loan with the Whites and proved to be a hugely important figure for the side, proving to be a talisman in a defensive line that appears light years ahead of this season’s options, and Leeds are reportedly keen to sign him on a permanent basis during the upcoming window.
The Yorkshire Evening Post reports that Bartley may be allowed to leave the Liberty Stadium this summer should the Swans retain their Premier League status – which is, by no means, a given at this point – and Leeds are hoping to see off any competition to win the race for his signature.
The Yorkshire Evening Post adds that Leeds are confident that they will be able to meet Bartley’s valuation – which could arguably be a major statement of intent if they get him signed given that he agreed a deal until 2021 last summer. Spotrac shows that the former Arsenal trainee also earns £28,000 a week with the Swans.
There appear to be a number of stumbling blocks to clear before Bartley does return to Elland Road. Swansea staying up, the status of the centre-back’s current injury and any interest from elsewhere could all perhaps scupper Leeds’ chances of a deal.
But it is undoubtedly a positive step that the Whites hierarchy appear to have the intention to bring Bartley back. He will not solve Leeds’ defensive issues on his own, of course, but a deal to re-sign Bartley has to be considered a major step forward after such a disappointing year where their defensive frailties have been exposed so often.
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