Leeds United are close to getting a loan deal for Chelsea’s bright 20-year-old back, Alfie Gilchrist. Last year, under Mauricio Pochettino, the young star stood out.
Leeds, wanting to make their team stronger for the next Championship season, are at the front of the line among three teams, with Preston and Blackburn also keen.
Gilchrist shone last season, playing in 11 games for Chelsea and scoring his first goal in a big 6-0 win against Everton. His top play won him a new long deal, showing Chelsea’s big hope in him.
Talking about his new deal, Gilchrist said, “Getting this deal at Chelsea is a huge win for me and my family. It was easy to say yes, and every time I’ve signed here, it’s felt better and better.”But now I want to keep on pushing on and keep improving.”
Chelsea’s strategy for Gilchrist’s development includes a loan move to gain more first-team experience.
Leeds manager Daniel Farke, who is gearing up for a strong campaign after narrowly missing Premier League promotion last season, has identified Gilchrist as a key target.
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Leeds lost their promotion bid to Southampton, but Farke is optimistic about the next season and sees Gilchrist’s versatility—capable of playing both full-back and centre-back roles—as a valuable addition to the squad.
While Leeds are at the forefront of negotiations, the talks are ongoing, and it may take a few weeks before a final agreement is reached.
Both Preston and Blackburn are also monitoring the situation, hoping to bolster their defensive options with Gilchrist.
In other transfer news, Chelsea are making early moves in the transfer market. The club is close to finalizing a deal for Aston Villa striker Jhon Duran, aiming to add firepower to their squad. Chelsea’s summer has been busy.
The exit of Mauricio Pochettino was unexpected, and soon after, Enzo Maresca took his place.
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Last week, they brought in Tosin Adarabioyo, showing their eagerness to add strength and fresh talent to the team even before the transfer window officially starts.
For Leeds United, the potential addition of Alfie Gilchrist represents a significant boost as they aim to mount another strong challenge for Premier League promotion.
Gilchrist’s development on loan could prove beneficial for both his growth and Leeds’ defensive solidity, making this a mutually advantageous arrangement.