Leeds United

Leeds United

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Leeds ponder transfer for familiar winger target, as they hunt for Dan James replacement

Ryan Kent Rangers PSV August 2022

Leeds United are pondering a late move in the transfer window to sign long-time target Ryan Kent, claims a report.

The Rangers winger was wanted during Marcelo Bielsa’s time at Elland Road. Leeds though failed to get their hands on the former Liverpool man on more than one occasion.

Bielsa first tried to land the 25-year-old in August 2019, but the club’s £4.5m bid was rejected. Instead Kent signed for Rangers in a £7.5m deal, penning a four-year deal.

Leeds though retained an interest in the player and tried to land him again the following summer. But then Gers boss Steven Gerrard told the Whites Kent was not for sale after a £10m approach.

“The message is hands off – Ryan is a player we want to keep hold of,” Gerrard said.

Bielsa also tried with a £15m bid last summer to try and land Kent, but Rangers again stood firm. And now, under the tutelage of Jesse Marsch, Leeds are “considering whether to revive interest” in Kent.

The Daily Mail again floats the idea of Kent arriving in West Yorkshire. There is very little other detail other than Leeds’ previous interest in the player.

Kent is in the final 12 months of his Ibrox deal though and Leeds may well try and test the water.

The attacker has been in contract talks with the Ibrox club all summer.

Gers boss Gio Van Bronckhorst said the future of Kent was at the top of his wishlist.

Rangers keen to keep Kent

“We know the quality both Morelos and Kent bring to the team. They have been part of the squad for many years now. Ryan’s qualities are on a high level. Talks with him to extend his contrast are also happening at the moment,” said the Dutcman last month.

But no deal has been forthcoming, with some estimations it could cost Rangers around £12m to renew the terms of Kent.

The Oldham-born star has managed three assists in his opening three Scottish Premiership games.

Leeds meanwhile are on the lookout for a replacement for Dan James, just in case the winger leaves Elland Road.

Everton and Tottenham are keen on the Wales flyer. And Marsch will want to get a replacement winger in before allowing James to depart.

Everton want James as a replacement for Anthony Gordon, while Spurs will not let Bryan Gil depart until they have secured a replacement.

Spurs discussed a possible loan-to-buy deal with Leeds for James last week, according to Fabrizio Romano.