Good Morning. It's Tuesday 27th September, and here are the latest headlines from Elland Road...
Orta's going nowhere
Sky Sports journalist Tim Thornton has indicated that Leeds are not concerned about recent speculation linking Victor Orta with a move to Stamford Bridge. The Spaniard is understood to be on the Blues shortlist of Sporting Director's, as they prepare for the January transfer window. Radrizzani and Orta have a close working relationship. Radz bought him to Elland Road just days after completing the 100% buyout of the club, and maintain a strong friendship. The fact that Leeds are 'calm about the situation' indicates that Orta isn't likely to leave Elland Road anytime soon. According to Thornton...
When you’re somebody who’s got a good track record and you’ve done well, then you will attract interest from elsewhere. But I think Leeds are quite calm about the situation. Victor has been a big part of what Leeds have achieved over the last sort of few years.
Gnonto excites Leeds faithful
Wilfred Gnonto picked up his sixth International cap for Italy last night, as Roberto Mancini's men ran out 2-0 victors over Hungary. At 18yo, Gnonto possesses the maturity of a much older player and executes the high press - high turnover tactic effortlessly; which will stand him in good stead for his Elland Road future. Although it's still very much early days, we can safely assume Leeds have picked up a bargain. Where does this leave Joffy and Greenwood? Not only are they two years older than Gnonto, but the duo could be pushed further down the pecking order.
Pulisic asking price may deter Leeds approach
Leeds have once again been linked with a move for versatile midfielder Christian Pulisic. The £58m flop had slipped down the pecking order at Stamford Bridge and currently occupies the bottom place (20th) in the Whoscored rankings, with a measly rating of 6.07. Italian media outlet CalcioMercato have suggested that Leeds are one of four teams (along with Juventus, Borussia Dortmund and Newcastle United) that are keen to rescue the USA International from his Chelsea nightmare. Even though out of favour, it has been reported, that Chelsea will still demand a fee in the region of £31.5m, which may put prospective suitors off; yet Jesse Marsch remains a big fan...
Christian [Pulisic] is a big, big talent, the best in our country. The expectations on him are high, he has met a lot of those expectations. But with his talent, people are demanding more. Every time I’ve coached against him, he’s scored. I don’t have any negative criticisms. I would love to work with him, whether it is with the national team in the distant future. He has created a lot of firsts for American players.
