Leeds United midfielder Weston McKennie is still the subject of interest from rival suitors despite his loan move to Elland Road, according to transfer insider Dean Jones.

The Lowdown: McKennie impressing at Leeds

The American joined the Whites on loan during the January transfer window, making the move from Juventus in order to enjoy more regular playing time.

McKennie has done well in his first month or so as a Leeds player, making four Premier League starts and averaging two clearances and 1.6 tackles per game, endearing himself to supporters with his combative and passionate style of play.

He played all 90 minutes of Saturday's vital 1-0 victory at home to Southampton and thus looks set to be a key man for Javi Gracia between now and the end of the season.

The Latest: Concern emerges

According to reports in Italy, Leeds will have the option available to buy McKennie permanently this summer if he makes ten or more appearances and if they escape the threat of relegation.

However, speaking to Give Me Sport, transfer expert Jones revealed that there is other interest in McKennie ahead of the summer, which is of course a concern if he does not see a successful long-term vision in Yorkshire:

"I mean, there's still other interest out there for him, but if Leeds turn the corner and Gracia puts him at the centre of the project, I think it could actually still turn out well."

The Verdict: Summer deal would be massive

This is a concerning update from a Leeds perspective, with McKennie someone who could be a brilliant summer signing and a key figure for years to come.

[freshpress-quiz id=“418869"]

The 24-year-old already has 41 caps and nine goals to his name for the USA, and his partnership with Tyler Adams at Elland Road has started to show signs of mirroring their international relationship.

Jesse Marsch recently hailed the midfielder as 'incredible', and if Leeds are able to keep him beyond this summer, it would feel like a real statement of intent.

It's easy to imagine the turmoil of the manager search and takeover saga could play an impact on players like McKennie wanting to join the club permanently however, and if a Champions League team come in for him, it could be tough for him to turn them down.