Complicated Gunn loan possible as Leeds bid for Stockdale fails

Leeds United could be forced to abandon their efforts to sign David Stockdale from Birmingham after their efforts to sign him on an initial loan deal were rebuffed.

Recently-appointed Whites boss Marcelo Bielsa is ready to re-shape his squad after announcing a list of 14 stars he would like to keep – with the capture of a new No 1 among his summer priorities.

The club’s director of football Victor Orta had recommended a move for Stockdale or Manchester City youngster Angus Gunn – but it seems their efforts to land one or the other look doomed to fail.

Leeds had submitted an offer to loan Stockdale in an initial loan deal which would become permanent in 12 months’ time – but their proposal has been rejected by Blues, who are only interested in a straight cash deal.

And with Leeds looking to invest their cash elsewhere – Derby’s £10m-rated forward Matej Vydra remains their top target – it seems they may have to abandon plans over Stockdale.

Leeds were willing to pay a large portion of Stockdale’s wages after the keeper was informed by Blues boss Garry Monk he wouldn’t be part of their first-team plans this season – but with hopes of a move to Elland Road appearing to fade, the Whites may be forced to look for an alternative.

Any chances they had of signing City’s Gunn on a permanent deal look over, with the 22-year-old apparently set to join Southampton in a £15million deal. However, a loan move may yet be possible should his move to St Mary’s go through. Saints already have Alex McCarthy as their established No 1, and with Fraser Forster also on their books, it’s not clear at this stage what will become of Gunn should he move to the south coast. An immediate loan away from Saints is not out of the question and is one possible avenue still open to Bielsa and Leeds.

One other named suggested is veteran West Brom stopper Ben Foster, who looks set to leave the Hawthorns after falling out with the club and failing to attend their pre-season tour – but his wages are thought to be prohibitive, as is the £3million price Albion are seeking for the former England international.

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