Juventus' Weston McKennie during the warm up
Journalist Pete O’Rourke believes that Leeds United may find it hard to sign reported transfer target Weston McKennie.
The Lowdown: McKennie linked with Leeds
Leeds were linked with a move for the American almost 12 months ago during Marcelo Bielsa’s tenure at Elland Road, and have been name-checked with an interest once again in recent weeks.
Journalist Ben Jacobs believes that Leeds have scouted the midfielder, who talent scout Jacek Kulig previously described as ‘incredibly underrated’.
Primarily a central midfielder, McKennie has made 16 appearances for Juventus this season and is under contract until 2025. [Transfermarkt]
The Latest: O’Rourke’s comments
Speaking to GiveMeSport regarding Leeds and McKennie, O’Rourke said that the Whites may find it difficult to sign the midfielder due to his salary, price tag and other interested suitors.
The journalist stated: “I think it’d be quite a hard deal to do. Wages and possibly the price tag as well might be out of Leeds’ price range, and I’m sure there will be other clubs also interested in Weston McKennie if Juventus do decide to try and sell him in the January window.”
The Verdict: Needed?
Clint Dempsey appears to be a big fan of McKennie, labelling him someone who is “dangerous” at set pieces and crosses.
Someone like the USA international could be of use to Jesse Marsch’s squad in the New Year, especially as the 48-year-old has relied heavily on summer signings Marc Roca and Tyler Adams so far this season.
A serious injury to one of the two midfielders mentioned could leave Marsch with a problem in front of the back four, so looking to bring McKennie to Yorkshire could be a wise move.
Like O’Rourke says, though, it could be a tricky transfer for Andrea Radrizzani and Leeds to complete.
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