Leeds United have not got a purchase clause included in the loan deal for Lewis Baker but are looking at making the Chelsea midfielder a permanent addition in the future, according to reliable journalist Phil Hay.
The Yorkshire Evening Post reporter, one of the most reputed names covering the Whites, crucially revealed on his personal Twitter account that while no official agreement has been made between the Elland Road and Stamford Bridge outfits, there is an intention to sign the 23-year-old after a done deal for his loan was confirmed.
think it’s a “with a view to a permanent” situation as opposed to a formal option to buy
— Phil Hay (@PhilHay_) June 30, 2018
?? | #LUFC are delighted to announce the season-long loan signing of @lew_baker from Premier League side Chelsea
— Leeds United (@LUFC) June 30, 2018
The former England under-21 star was at Middlesbrough last season but managed to make just 12 Championship appearances, including a mere two since September 2017.
Opinion
Leeds may well have preferred to have had some sort of clause included in the deal, as it leaves them open to losing him when his temporary move comes to an end. However, they may well feel it is worth it as they do not know whether he has what it takes to be a success in the second tier just yet, and committing themselves to a price would have left little room for movement. This way, they can run the rule over the Chelsea midfielder during the season and then decide if they want to make a move, and what sort of fee they would be willing to pay for his capture. Having that ability to negotiate a price with the Blues is important, especially when they have to work to a tight budget, plus, if all goes to plan, they could be aiming much higher with the Premier League in their sights this time next year.