The #LUFC Breakfast Debate (Tuesday 30th January) Leeds pinning hopes on Godfrey
Good Morning. It's Tuesday 30th January, and here are the latest headlines from Elland Road...
Leeds pinning hopes on Godfrey
Leeds have submitted a second offer in as many days, seemingly pinning all their hopes on signing Ben Godfrey until the end of the season, with an obligation to buy in the Summer.
The versatile 26 year old has fallen down the pecking order at Goodison Park following the arrival of James Tarkowksi. He has made just two league appearances this season, and Everton are desperate to get him off their books.
It is believed that the Toffee's are not interested in loaning Godfrey out, and already have interested parties abroad bidding for his services. Whilst this pours cold water on Leeds initial approach, they are now offering a loan to buy clause, which would activate this Summer.
Leeds must be careful. They do not have the best of relationships with Everton. The Whites are part of a trio of clubs suing the Toffee's for £300m for loss of earnings, having been relegated last season.
The Wilfred Gnonto affair last Summer almost came to blows, not to mention Jack Harrison joining the blue side of Merseyside on a season long loan (without a loan fee).
Leeds miss out on trio of players
Leeds have missed out on the signatures of David Brooks, Kalvin Ramsay and Ali Al-Hamadi. Iranian International striker Al-Hamadi has signed a four and a half year contract with high flying Ipswich Town. He has netted 27 goals in 48 appearances for AFC Wimbledon, but with the terms of his contract dwindling, the Dons agreed an initial fee of just over £1m, though with add-ons, will rise considerably!
Leeds have also missed out on David Brooks, having monitored him all month. The 26 year old playmaker is joining fellow promotion hopefuls Southampton until the end of the season. Out of the three, losing out on Brooks to a promotion rival will hurt the most, especially if he can re-find the form of last season.
Lastly, and probably not so important, Calvin Ramsay is set to join Bolton, where he can be playing first team football every week.
Leeds turn their attention to Benson
Leeds may turn their attention to Burnley reject Manuel Benson after Southampton lost interest, following the capture of David Brooks. With only 133 minutes of league time all season, and a pathetic 'Whoscored' rating of 6.10, the 26yo Belgium winger has about as much chance of making an impact, as the Tories do of winning the next election; but with less than 48 hours of the transfer window remaining, beggars can't be choosers!!!
Benson offers versatility up front, but if he's not good enough for one of the relegation favourites, why would Leeds want him? He has only made the bench seven times this season!