‘Major problem’ at Derby opens Leeds door to snap up exciting duo
Derby are ready to sell exciting Leeds-linked duo Louie Sibley and Jason Knight due to their ongoing financial problems, according to a report.
The Rams are in the midst of a takeover bid by Sheikh Khaled’s Derventio Holdings. However, the move has stalled and the money from the proposed deal has not yet arrived.
Coupled with the club’s current struggles to pay players’ wages, The Sun claims that Derby have a ‘major problem’.
What’s more, it could lead to players handing in their notice if salaries arrive 14 days late. Indeed, 19-year-old pair Sibley and Knight are among the players who could leave.
In fact, the newspaper claims that Derby have made it known to prospective suitors that they will try and sell the duo to raise funds.
Leeds showed interest in a deal for midfielder Sibley during the last transfer window. Reports claimed that the Whites eyed the Englishman as cover in their midfield, which remains short of serious cover.
However, at the time Derby put his exit fee at £10million, forcing the West Yorkshire club to pull the plug on the deal.
Skip forward into 2021, though, and the prospect of landing Sibley looks a much easier one.
In addition, more recent reports have claimed that Leeds are keen on his fellow teenager Knight.
He is another who has progressed through Derby’s youth ranks and has well over 50 appearances under his belt. Capable of playing across the midfield, Knight has enjoyed a regular starting role in the Championship this season.
Indeed, he is also another who is now within reach. However, it remains unclear whether Marcelo Bielsa‘s men will renew their interest in both players.
Leeds in transfer exit talks
Meanwhile, further speculation has claimed that Leeds are looking at shifting Rafa Mujica out of the club.
Mujica joined in the summer of 2019, signing a three-year deal having left Barcelona B.
He was handed a debut in their pre-season friendly at York that summer – but is yet to feature for their first team.