Leeds’ 49ers owners ‘ready to wave goodbye’ to five players in January transfer window

Leeds United is considering allowing up to five first-team players to go out on loan in January as they pursue an immediate return to the Premier League. Despite being in third place in the Championship and maintaining an undefeated streak in their last four league matches, the club finds themselves seven points away from the automatic promotion spots currently held by Leicester City and Ipswich Town.

Manager Daniel Farke has successfully formed a cohesive starting lineup that yields positive results, but with the inability to field everyone, potential departures are anticipated in January. Here are some players who could be seeking new opportunities:

1. **Joe Gelhardt:**

 

– Gelhardt, also known as ‘Joffy,’ had a significant impact when he debuted for Leeds in 2021. However, after struggling for playing time last season, he was loaned to Sunderland for the latter part of the season.
– With only five appearances for Leeds this season, and the most recent one as a substitute in September, a January loan move appears likely for Gelhardt.

2. **Charlie Cresswell:**

– Cresswell spent the previous season on loan at Millwall, making 28 league appearances and scoring four goals.
– Despite this experience, the 21-year-old center-back has had limited opportunities under Farke, making only four appearances this season. As the fourth-choice central defender, a loan deal may be considered to ensure playing time.

3. **Leo Hjelde:**

– Norwegian Hjelde spent the second half of the previous season on loan with Rotherham United, making 13 appearances.
– Despite impressing during his loan spell, Hjelde has seen minimal action for Leeds this season, prompting speculation of another loan move in January, possibly leading to a permanent departure in the summer.

4. **Mateo Joseph:**

 

– Spanish-born forward Joseph, a regular for England U20s, has yet to make a senior appearance for Leeds this season, primarily featuring in the club’s youth ranks.
– With ambitions to make an impact elsewhere, a January departure seems probable, potentially with another Championship or League One club.

5. **Kristoffer Klaesson:**

 

– Goalkeeper Klaesson, at 22, has made just one senior appearance for Leeds in the past three seasons and is currently the third-choice goalkeeper behind Illan Meslier and Karl Darlow.
– While still considered young for a goalkeeper, Klaesson might seek more regular playing time elsewhere to fulfill his aspirations of becoming a regular No. 1.

The potential loan departures aim to provide these players with valuable playing time and opportunities for development, aligning with their career aspirations and the club’s strategic considerations.