Report: Leeds United unable to grant Marcelo Bielsa his first wish

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Incoming Leeds United boss wanted to bring pre-season forward.

Leeds United have reportedly abandoned plans to bring pre-season forward by a week.

The Yorkshire Evening Post reported Leeds had been preparing to call players back for June 18 at incoming boss Marcelo Bielsa’s express request.

Now due to the time being taken to appoint Bielsa, Leeds have had to revert to their original pre-season date of June 25, the same week as most Championship clubs.

The Whites are negotiating with Bielsa but have as yet been unable to rubber stamp and announce an agreement with the much lauded manager.

Argentine outlet TyC Sports claim Bielsa is pushing for a one year deal, with an option to extend by a further year.

Leeds keeping pre-season to the 25th may disappoint Bielsa, but it is the practical move with negotiations still ongoing.

Players would have needed to know where they stood with regard to travel plans, so the Whites were pushed into a decision.

Bielsa will still have to get his work permit fast-tracked pending acceptance of the Leeds job, and while this is a formality, it could have delayed his start date until after the 18th.