Birmingham City have decided to reject a loan offer from Leeds United to sign goalkeeper David Stockdale, according to Football Insider.
The reliable news outlet claims that the Whites had offered to cover almost all of the 32-year-old’s wages to sign him on a temporary deal this summer, however Blues have snubbed the Yorkshire club’s advances.
Stockdale has been cast away from the Birmingham squad by manager Garry Monk, who is understood to not have any plans to use the ex-Brighton shot-stopper next season and has told him to stay away from first team training.
Football Insider adds that Stockdale is keen on moving to Elland Road this summer.
Good move for Leeds?
Leeds definitely need another goalkeeper this summer with Felix Wiedwald’s exit already confirmed and the chances that Andy Lonergan will also follow at some point after a poor debut season at Elland Road.
Young Bailey-Peacock Farrell could be the only shot-stopper left in Marcelo Bielsa’s squad, so signing Stockdale should be the new Leeds manager’s first priority.
His experience and the fact that he is from Leeds means that he would be a good mentor for Peacock-Farrell and his experience in the Championship also means that he would be a solid addition between the sticks for next season.
This is Futbol rating 9/10
Likely to happen?
Birmingham are really playing hardball over Stockdale and it might be to do with Monk’s decision to walk out on Leeds last year.
They clearly do not want him to go out on loan and do not want to pay any of his wages.
Leeds may have to look into a permanent deal, which may mean they will target another goalkeeper if they cannot get this one done.
This is Futbol rating 6/10