Leeds United have rejected a loan bid for young centre-back Charlie Cresswell from Sunderland, as they would rather he continued to develop at Thorp Arch [Sunday People via Inside Futbol].

The Lowdown: Leeds United look towards the 2021/22 campaign

Progressing towards the new campaign, Marcelo Bielsa will be keen to keep his talented squad together as they look to improve on their ninth placed finish last term.

Falling through the cracks, nine men have made the journey through the Elland Road exit doors including the likes of Barry Douglas and Ezgjan Alioski [Transfermarkt].

Despite this, one man who doesn’t look likely to leave the Yorkshiremen this season is 18-year-old Cresswell following recent reports.

The Latest: Whites reject Sunderland approach for Cresswell

Sunderland offered the 6ft ace the chance to be a major player in their promotion bid from Sky Bet League One, however were quickly knocked back by his parent club [Sunday People via Inside Futbol].

Leeds United have no plans to loan him out, whilst they also see him as their fifth-choice centre-back heading into the new season.

They are planning to offer him a long-term contract to reflect his value and potential to the side.

The Verdict: Leeds United should give Cresswell first-team openings this season

Excitingly for the Leeds United support, the news that the Whites have knocked back bids for the highly sought-after Cresswell can only be a good thing for his prospects at the club.

Already making an impact on first-team soil, he scored for Leeds United earlier in the week in a 2-1 pre-season loss away to Fleetwood Town [Leeds Live].

In 2020/21, he made 23 appearances combined for Leeds United and Leeds United Under-23’s, scoring twice [Transfermarkt].

Once described as having ‘great attributes’ by former Leeds striker Noel Whelan, his side should look to give him senior opportunities this campaign [Football Fancast].

In other news, Leeds United are interested in a 2-time Champions League winner.