Defender Jake Clarke-Salter
Leeds United have made contact with Chelsea over a possible cut-price deal for Jake Clarke-Salter, according to The Sun.
The Lowdown: Clarke-Salter profiled
The centre-back has been on the books at Stamford Bridge as a senior player since 2018, and although he has made just two senior appearances for the Blues, he has gained plenty of senior experience with loan spells at five separate clubs.
The 24-year-old spent the 2021/22 campaign with Coventry City, where he made 29 Championship appearances. Described as ‘outstanding’ by Sky Blues boss Mark Robins, Clarke-Salter is out of contract at Chelsea this summer, although there is an option to extend his deal by a further 12 months.
The Latest: Leeds enquiry for Clarke-Salter
The Sun shared a story regarding Clarke-Salter’s future on Monday, revealing that both Leeds and Sheffield United have made an enquiry for his services.
Dutch side PSV Eindhoven are also name-checked within the report, while Coventry will look to sign him on a permanent basis should he become a free agent.
Will Marsch keep Leeds up?
Yes, I still have faith!
No, we are finished!
The Verdict: Koch replacement?
It remains to be seen what division Leeds will be playing in next season, but either way it looks as if Jesse Marsch is planning a defensive overhaul ahead of his first full season in charge.
Reports last month revealed that the Whites will listen to offers for Robin Koch over the summer. The German, who was described as ‘horrible’ to watch by Beren Cross in the opening day defeat to Manchester United back in August, could depart for between £10m and £11m.
Should Leeds drop back down to the Championship, then Clarke-Salter could be a shrewd signing due to his experience in the second tier. However, if the Whites stay up, it could be a risky addition given that he has only made one Premier League appearance during his career, and that was way back in 2016.
In other news: ‘Sad to report…’ – Phil Hay reacts to Leeds news as things go from bad to worse at Elland Road.
About the Author
