Leicester City have opted to keep defender Harry Souttar at the club despite interest from Sheffield United and Leeds United, according to Football Insider.
Rumours have intensified throughout the day that the Foxes were willing to let the Australian international depart on a loan deal in order to find first team football. The 25-year-old has struggled to break into the starting 11 since his arrival from Stoke City a year ago, making just 16 appearances to date.
This season has seen his chances almost completely dry up. The centre-back has just three Championship outings to his name totalling just 98 minutes, although 85 of those came in the win over Stoke City in October.
A move to Leeds seemed like a match made in heaven. Daniel Farke has been crying out for defensive recruits and has already lost out in the race for Ben Godfrey, Mason Holgate and Joe Worrall. It’s unclear as to why Enzo Maresca has opted to keep the ex-Fleetwood Town loanee in his squad, although strengthening a direct promotion rival may have played a part.
Souttar remained the last of their remaining targets before entering a race to secure the services of Newcastle United’s Paul Dummett.
The 32-year-old has barely set foot on a football pitch over the last couple of seasons and is wanted by both Leeds and Ipswich Town. It remains to be seen as to whether the Magpies will sanction a late move, although time is slowly running out.
Despite interest in a host of players, the Yorkshire outfit are yet to confirm any transfers during this window and now face a race against time to add to their squad. They currently sit fourth in the Championship, just two points behind Ipswich in second, with Southampton sandwiched in between.
Leeds have won their last four league outings and travel to Bristol City tomorrow night.
Writer’s View
It’s starting to look a little desperate at Elland Road now. Burnley right-back Connor Roberts should complete his loan move, although it looks as if they could miss out on their desired centre-back.
Daniel Farke still has enough quality in his squad to push hard for promotion and they may well yet try and convince Leicester to relinquish their hold on Harry Souttar. It will be an interesting next few hours at Leeds.
