As you may have heard, Chelsea have spoken to Victor Orta about leaving Leeds to become the new Director of Football at Stamford Bridge.
That is according to 90min, who believe Todd Boehly has set his sights on the Spaniard as he aims to give Graham Potter the foundations he needs in west London.
Now, the fact Orta agreed to be interviewed for the vacancy suggested he is keen on taking the role, and this latest rumour – coupled with comments from Jesse Marsch at the start of October – should concern Leeds fans.
Leeds could lose Victor Orta for family reasons
Interestingly, the American suggested that a move to London would help Orta and his “family situation” – although he did not specify what the exact details of the situation are.
Marsch did specifically name Chelsea, however.
As quoted by Football London, the 48-year-old said: “I said if you get an opportunity to go to a place like Chelsea with your family situation, I understand you have to consider it. In the end he has to make a decision for what’s best for him and his family.”
Now – as aforesaid – Orta has since been interviewed by Chelsea following these comments, which suggest his move to Stamford Bridge is edging closer.
Boehly is keen to hire a new Director of Football immediately, and with Michael Edwards – his No.1 target – taking a break from football after leaving Liverpool, Orta could be the man chosen to help Potter.
Leeds must identify options in case Orta joins Chelsea
In our view, it would be wise of Leeds to draw up a shortlist of potential replacements for Orta, as talk of him joining Chelsea simply will not go away.
Presumably, Boehly wants a Sporting Director in place for the January transfer window, so the last thing Leeds want is to be scampering around to find a Sporting Director of their own, wasting time which could be spent making transfer plans.
The Whites still need some reinforcements – mainly a new striker – so there is certainly work to be done in January.
However, it might have to be done without Orta.
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