Leeds United have decided to sell winger Jack Harrison this summer regardless of whether they achieve promotion to the Premier League, according to Football Insider.
The 27-year-old joined Everton on a season-long loan last summer, although it is believed that the deal does not include an option to buy. Since recovering from an injury in the early stages of the campaign, the former England under-21 international has been an ever-present in Sean Dyche’s team.
Harrison has three goals and three assists in 22 league appearances and last scored in the 2-2 draw with Tottenham Hotspur in February. It was reported last month that the attacker is keen to make the permanent switch to Goodison Park, although it remains unclear at this stage as to whether the Toffees will pursue a deal.
Much could depend on whether Everton can avoid relegation. They currently sit 16th in the top tier, four points above the drop zone after seeing their 10 point deduction reduced to six.
It is claimed that Harrison has a £20 million release clause in his existing contract at Elland Road, which is set to run until 2028. However, that will only come into play should Leeds fail to achieve promotion this season.
Either way, it is claimed that the Whites are willing to sanction his exit this summer, regardless of what league they are playing in next season. An instant return to the Premier League does look to be on the cards though. Daniel Farke’s team can move to the top of the table this weekend when they host Millwall on Sunday, with Leicester City focusing on their FA Cup exploits.
According to the report, the manager would be keen to stick by the players that have enjoyed a phenomenal season, meaning that all of those currently out on loan will be allowed to leave the club.
Speaking last month, Harrison admitted he was loving life on Merseyside:
“It’s been great so far,” He told EvertonTV. “I’ve played in different positions and in a different style as well.
“The group has welcomed me in fantastically and I couldn’t have asked for anymore, with them and the coaching staff and performance team as well behind the scenes who helped me come back from injury and put me in a good spot physically on the pitch.
“It’s been great to be part of and I’m really happy.”
Writer’s View
It’s the news that most were expecting. Harrison’s move to Everton didn’t go down well with supporters last summer and it would have been difficult to force his way back into the team due to the excellent performances from those that have replaced him.
It is likely to prove to be shrewd business by Leeds and they stand to make significant profit on the player. Having paid £11 million to Manchester City to bring him to Elland Road on a permanent basis in 2021 after three seasons on loan, they can be comfortable knowing that they will be able to reinvest the fee he generates at the end of the season.
