The #LUFC Breakfast Debate (Monday 14th July) Harrison has no future at Elland Road
Good Morning. It's Monday 14th July, and here are the latest headlines from Elland Road...
Harrison has no future at ER
Leeds are reportedly ready to entertain offers around £10 million for winger Jack Harrison this summer. After two seasons on loan at Everton, the 28-year-old has returned to Thorp Arch, albeit reluctantly, for pre-season training. However, it's clear he's not part of Daniel Farke's vision for the upcoming campaign, a sentiment fully reciprocated by Harrison, who is keen to secure a definitive move away from Elland Road.
Harrison’s journey with Leeds has been a complicated one. He initially arrived on loan for three seasons, accruing £9 million in loan fees, before making his permanent switch in the summer of 2021 for £11m. He came close to leaving during the 2023 winter transfer window and was in the middle of a medical (with Leicester City) when the 49ers dramatically intervened, and ended up signing a lucrative new long-term contract, reportedly worth £90,000 per week.
Following relegation that season, Harrison controversially deserted the Whites, joining Everton on loan for two seasons without so much as a loan fee. This move, perceived by many as abandoning the club in their hour of need, created significant bad blood with the fan base, further straining his relationship with the club.
For Leeds, moving Harrison on is as much about finances and it is about a harmonious dressing room. While a permanent sale is the preferred outcome, the club remains open to another loan spell if no suitable offers materialise, though this could see them bear a portion of his significant salary.
Calvert-Lewin high on Leeds wish list
Goals are an expensive commodity in the top flight, and securing a proven scorer is paramount to ensuring Leeds survival next season. The emergence of Dominic Calvert-Lewin as a free agent therefor presents an interesting dilemma for the Whites!
The eleven time England ace recently became a free agent following the expiry of his contract with Everton, making him an attractive proposition for many clubs. According to reports, Leeds are exploring various attacking options this summer, and Calvert-Lewin appears to be high on their list.
At his best, he has showcased genuine Premier League quality, making him a potentially excellent addition. After a challenging spell at Everton marred by injuries and inconsistent form, a fresh start at Elland Road could be precisely what the striker needs to reignite his career.
At 28, he is still theoretically in his prime and will undoubtedly be eager to get back to his prolific best.
However, Leeds will need to carefully consider his Bamfordesque injury record. While the financial benefit of signing a player of his calibre without a transfer fee is undeniable, his well-documented struggles with fitness in recent seasons are a significant factor.
Other striking news
Rumours linking Daniel Farke with a reunion with Norwich striker Josh Sargent continue to find their way to the back pages of the tabloids. Farke was instrumental in bringing Sargent to Carrow Road in 2021 just before his sacking, and since then, has netted 46 times in 121 league appearances for the Canaries.
Norwich's reported £20m valuation for Sargent, while steep, reflects the current premium on quality attackers. The question remains whether he offers a significant upgrade on existing options like Joel Piroe, especially considering the hefty price tag.
Leeds have already moved to bolster their attacking ranks with the acquisition of Lukas Nmecha. However, his two-year deal and 'experienced bit-part player' tag suggest he's more of a short-term solution, expected to fill any temporary voids up front.
Beyond Sargent, the Whites are casting a wide net, holding talks with Everton's Dominic Calvert-Lewin and Callum Wilson. Wilson, 33 and available on a free transfer offers valuable experience, but both he and Calvert-Lewin come with well-documented injury histories.
Can Leeds afford to gamble on a player who might spend a significant portion of the season on the sidelines? The club faces tough decisions as they seek a reliable goal scorer. Their top target, Fulham's Rodrigo Muniz would certainly give Whites fans the shot in the arm needed to believe they can survive next season, but all depends on whether Fulham can find a suitable replacement!