It was always going to be a long-shot for Leeds United to convince James Milner to make the move back to Elland Road, wasn’t it?
Yet with the Whites seemingly on course to secure promotion to the Premier League earlier this year, it was not at all surprising that their supporters were thinking about a possible re-union with the former Thorp Arch prospect.
However, following Marcelo Bielsa’s side’s capitulation in the play-offs against Derby County on May 15th, Leeds are now preparing for another season in the Championship which is understandably not that appealing to a player of Milner’s calibre.
Currently a regular starter for Liverpool, the 33-year-old could be on the verge of winning the Champions League with the Merseyside-based outfit having played a pivotal role throughout the competition.
Although Milner is still a key player for the Reds, the fact that he is still yet to agree new terms with Jurgen Klopp over a new deal could result in him being available on a free transfer this summer.
Despite the midfielder’s connections with the Whites, Yorkshire Evening Post journalist Phil Hay confirmed on Twitter that a deal to sign him will not be happening during the upcoming transfer window, sparking a devastated reaction from some Leeds fans.
You’ve just broke my heart
— thomas banks (@ThomasBanks1985) May 29, 2019
What a shock if we’d gone up maybe we could have tried…
— Josh Hobbs (@JoshAHobbs) May 30, 2019
Phillip mate, no need.
— William (@WilliamIrwin_) May 29, 2019
I don’t understand pro footballers if I was in his shoes. Minted why would I not sign for the team I love he could afford to play for free
— christopher glenn (@gwansie) May 29, 2019
Jesus Phil. Let us down gently. Know it was never going to happen but Christ
— Ashleigh (@ashlaurenn_) May 29, 2019
Thanks for the reply anyway. Honestly I’m not crying here
— Barney (@BarneyStuart21) May 29, 2019
Don’t mean to be controversial here but if @JamesMilner does love #lufc why the hell would he not come home now. I know players can have short careers but it’s not applicable to him now is it. He must have made good money and has had great career. It’s time Come home James (mmm)
— Paul (@Psych_Squirrel) May 30, 2019
Whereas Milner will not be playing for Bielsa’s side next season, there is no reason why he will not make his return to the club where it all started for him in the future.
