Leeds United Eye Crystal Palace Star Jesurun Rak-Sakyi with £15m Bid Amidst Rowe Competition
Leeds United have made a bold £15 million bid for Crystal Palace winger Jesurun Rak-Sakyi, according to journalist Alan Nixon. The move comes as Leeds shift their focus from Norwich City’s Jonathan Rowe, who has been the subject of interest from multiple clubs including Marseille.
Leeds United’s £15 Million Move for Rak-Sakyi
Leeds United’s offer for Rak-Sakyi is a significant investment, reflecting their commitment to strengthening their squad for the season ahead. However, the bid is expected to be rejected, with Crystal Palace reportedly planning to send Rak-Sakyi on loan to Sheffield United instead. The young winger, who has caught the eye of several English clubs, including Hull City, is seen as a key player for Palace, and the club’s management is keen to retain him for the long term.
Nixon’s report suggests that Rak-Sakyi’s immediate future might lie away from Selhurst Park, but a loan move seems more likely than a permanent transfer at this stage. Former Charlton boss Dean Holden has praised Rak-Sakyi as “phenomenal,” underscoring the high regard in which he is held within the football community.
The Competition for Jonathan Rowe
Leeds United had initially targeted Norwich City’s Jonathan Rowe, but their pursuit faces stiff competition from Marseille. Rowe, who impressed last season, has become a sought-after talent, and Leeds are now pivoting towards Rak-Sakyi as a potential alternative. This shift in focus highlights the dynamic nature of the transfer market and the challenges Leeds face in securing their primary targets.
Rak-Sakyi’s Potential Departure
With the Championship season already underway, Rak-Sakyi’s future remains uncertain. While Palace are reportedly inclined to keep him, the possibility of a loan move to Sheffield United is increasingly likely. The loan fee demanded by Palace could be substantial, adding another layer of complexity to the situation.
Rak-Sakyi’s desire to finalize his future is palpable, as he aims to secure a stable position ahead of the new season. Whether he ends up moving permanently or on loan, it is clear that his time at Selhurst Park may be coming to an end.
| Jesurun Rak-Sakyi – Career Statistics | ||||
|---|---|---|---|---|
| Club | Appearances | Goals | Assists | Yellow/Red Cards |
| Charlton Athletic | 49 | 15 | 9 | 3/0 |
| Crystal Palace U21 | 40 | 24 | 8 | 2/0 |
| Crystal Palace U18 | 17 | 8 | 8 | 2/0 |
| Crystal Palace | 10 | 0 | 0 | 0/0 |
| Brighton U18 | 1 | 1 | 0 | 0/0 |
| Chelsea U18 | 1 | 0 | 0 | 0/0 |
Leeds’ Need for Reinforcements
Leeds United’s need for a winger is underscored by the recent departure of Crysencio Summerville to West Ham United. Summerville’s contributions last season were significant, and finding a replacement who can deliver similar performances is crucial for Leeds. The addition of Rak-Sakyi could help fill this void, but whether the £15 million offer will be sufficient remains to be seen.
The Situation with Dejan Ljubicic
In addition to their pursuit of Rak-Sakyi, Leeds have also been in the market for midfield reinforcements. According to German outlet BILD, Leeds had a £3.4 million bid for Dejan Ljubicic rejected earlier in the transfer window. To secure his signature, Leeds may need to present a substantially higher offer. The need for additional midfield depth is pressing, especially following the departures of Glen Kamara and Archie Gray.
Leeds United’s pursuit of Jesurun Rak-Sakyi with a £15 million bid and their interest in other targets like Jonathan Rowe and Dejan Ljubicic reflect the club’s determination to strengthen their squad. With the transfer window drawing to a close, Leeds will need to navigate a competitive market to secure their desired signings. Rak-Sakyi’s potential departure from Crystal Palace, whether on loan or permanently, will be a key storyline in the coming days, as both Leeds and other interested clubs await the final resolution of his future.
As the season progresses, Leeds will be watching closely to see if their efforts pay off and whether they can find the right players to bolster their squad and address the gaps left by recent departures.
