Leeds United manager Jesse Marsch believes that sporting director Victor Orta is happy at the club but can't rule out an exit, according to journalist Beren Cross.

The Lowdown: Orta exit rumours emerging

The Spaniard has been an influential presence at Elland Road since assuming his current role in 2017, securing a number of successful signings for the Whites from Patrick Bamford to Raphinha.

Orta has been linked with a move away from Leeds this week, with Chelsea eyeing him up as they look to bring in a new sporting director.

It is a worrying rumour for anyone of a Whites persuasion, given the impressive manner in which the 43-year-old has gone about his job to date in Yorkshire.

The Latest: Marsch unsure on Orta's future

Taking to Twitter on Friday in sharing an article for Leeds Live, Cross confirmed Marsch's stance on the matter, with the Leeds manager sitting on the fence somewhat regarding Orta's position at Elland Road.

The journalist tweeted:

"Marsch spoke openly on the Orta links with Chelsea. Couldn't rule out an exit, but reiterated the director of football is happy in Leeds. Wants him to stay."

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The Verdict: Would be a big loss

Losing Orta at this point could be a significant blow for Leeds, having only moved on from the much-loved Marcelo Bielsa earlier in the year and with Marsch still in the early stages of his managerial tenure.

The Spaniard's influence at the club is undeniable, with YouTuber Joe Wainman once describing him as 'the decent apple in a group of bad apples', and he could take some replacing.

The fact that Marsch believes Orta is happy at Leeds appears to bode well but Chelsea's interest is a concern, in what could be an enticing role for him to accept in west London.