Leeds United striker Sonny Perkins has agreed to make his loan move to Leyton Orient permanent, according to Football Insider.
Perkins, 20, initially joined Leeds from West Ham United in the summer of 2022 but struggled to break into the first team at Elland Road. After an unsuccessful loan spell at Oxford United last year, he joined Leyton Orient on a season-long loan in the summer of 2024.
Now, the forward is set to leave Leeds permanently, bringing an end to his time with the Championship leaders.
Perkins Closing in on Permanent Move
Since joining Orient, Perkins has played a key role in Richie Wellens’ side, scoring four goals and providing six assists in 19 appearances across all competitions.
His contract at Leeds was due to expire at the end of the season, making this transfer window the club’s last opportunity to receive a fee for his departure. By agreeing to a permanent switch now, the deal ensures Leeds avoid losing him for free in the summer.
“Perkins is now understood to have agreed a permanent move to Leyton Orient which would allow his parent club to do that, or at least speed up a process that may have been on the way within months anyway.” – Football Insider
Perkins made just four senior appearances for Leeds but has found regular game time and form at Orient, making him a valuable asset as they push for a promotion play-off spot.
Orient’s Busy Transfer Window
Wellens’ side have already been active in the transfer market, signing Azeem Abdullai permanently from Swansea City and securing Dilan Markanday on loan from Blackburn Rovers. Football Insider also reports that midfielder Ethan Galbraith is attracting interest from Swansea ahead of a potential move.
Orient’s impressive season has seen them rise to sixth in the League One table following a 6-2 win at Exeter City, further strengthening their hopes of promotion.
Meanwhile, Leeds remain at the top of the Championship table, three points clear of the play-off positions, despite a recent goalless draw at Burnley.
Writer’s View
Perkins’ departure from Leeds is hardly surprising given his limited first-team chances. Despite arriving with promise from West Ham, his struggles to secure a place in the squad meant a move was inevitable. Leyton Orient have provided him with a platform to showcase his abilities, and his performances so far suggest he can be a key figure for their promotion push. For Leeds, this is a sensible decision as they cash in before losing him for free in the summer.
