Sunderland, Leicester City hold surprise interest in Leeds United fringe man
Leeds United forward Sam Greenwood has interest from Sunderland and Leicester City, a report from the Daily Mail has said.
Leeds United are heading for the Premier League and have been joined by Sunderland. LUFC lifted the Championship title, while the Black Cats were victorious in the play-off final.
Both will be out to make changes to their squads this summer, with upgrades an absolute must at Elland Road and the Stadium of Light
It means some of those on the fringes at both clubs could find themselves on the way out. Among those in that position in Yorkshire is forward Sam Greenwood, but fresh reports state he could find a route out to the North East.
The Daily Mail reports that Sunderland have an interest in Leeds United man Greenwood as they gear up for top-flight football. They are not the only ones keen though, with relegated Leicester City also eyeing a possible deal for the 23-year-old.
It is said that the LUFC man is viewed as a cut-price addition for Sunderland, with Greenwood among the potential domestic bargains on the radar on Wearside.
Greenwood has a year left on his contract, so a fee will be required. However, given his place in the Whites’ pecking order, they are unlikely to set a hefty demand.
Why Greenwood can still be an asset
Greenwood might not have posted groundbreaking numbers in his loans away from Leeds United with Middlesbrough and Preston North End, but he was a solid enough performer for both.
Perhaps his impact was not as strong as hoped though, especially given the Premier League experience he had gained at LUFC.
However, aged 23, Greenwood still has ample time to develop and reach his high ceiling. Settling at a permanent hope may well benefit him, allowing him to put roots down and really focus on his game.
The versatility and technical ability Greenwood boasts could make him a shrewd addition. He mainly operates in attacking midfield but has been used across the front three and even in central midfield at times.
Who else could Leeds United offload?
Greenwood would appear to be one of several players Leeds United are willing to offload this summer in a bid to free up space in the squad and budget.
Fellow attacker Joe Gelhardt is widely expected to leave, while there have been persisting rumours over the futures of Patrick Bamford and Mateo Joseph.
Max Wober looks poised to leave after his fringe role last season, while Junior Firpo’s contract situation remains unresolved. Prospects like Charlie Crew and James Debayo could benefit from loan opportunities too.
