Kyle Bartley is unlikely to return to Leeds United for a second spell in the upcoming season despite the club’s need for centre-back reinforcements, according to a reliable journalist.
Yorkshire Evening Post correspondent Phil Hay took to Twitter to give his verdict on United’s chances of re-signing Bartley after his hugely successful loan in 2016-17.
Asked by a Leeds supporter if a deal that would prove hugely popular was still possible, Hay replied on his personal Twitter account that he did not see the Swansea defender heading back to Elland Road.
I don’t see Bartley happening
— Phil Hay (@PhilHayYEP) July 16, 2017
Leeds expert Hay provided the update after explaining earlier in the day on the social media site that the Championship club are looking to the domestic market for at least two new centre-backs in the remaining six weeks of the transfer window.
I’d expect to see at least two CBs come in. Looking at the domestic market.
— Phil Hay (@PhilHayYEP) July 16, 2017
Manager Thomas Christiansen has made it clear that his “priority” is to strengthen in defence after overseeing a recruitment drive loaded with midfielder and attacking arrivals.
Nine players have signed this summer, including 2016-17 loanees Pontus Jansson and Hadi Sacko.
With Giuseppe Bellusci deemed surplus to requirements and in talks to leave, the only two senior centre-backs are Jansson and Liam Cooper, with the Swede suspended for the opening two matches of the new campaign.
Bartley formed an outstanding partnership with Jansson last season that was integral to Leeds’ strong promotion challenge before their final-month collapse resulted in a seventh-place finish.
The 26-year-old has returned to parent club Swansea despite supporters of the Yorkshire giants calling for the club to sign him ahead of a number of other suitors.
This Is Futbol analyses five centre-backs who could solve Leeds’ defensive dilemma and be key to their quest to storm to promotion next season.