Leeds United are working on a deal to sign Chelsea goalkeeper Jamal Blackman on loan after losing out in the race to sign Angus Gunn, according to the Yorkshire Evening Post.
The regional newspaper claim that Gunn’s imminent move from Manchester City to Southampton has paved the way for Leeds to Blackman to head to Elland Road.
The Yorkshire Evening Post report Leeds are trying to formally agree a season-long loan for Blackman, who has already been spotted at their Thorp Arch headquarters a fortnight ago.
Good move for Leeds United?
Blackman has pedigree and genuine talent. He joined the Chelsea academy in his teens and has risen through the ranks to become a professional at a club where competition for places is as intense as it gets. Farmed out on loan on four occasions, the 24-year-old has impressed onlookers, including in 33 appearances for Sheffield United last season. He has also been capped by England at Under-19s level. Intriguingly, the Yorkshire Evening Post report Leeds want Blackman to be immediately installed as their number one ahead of Bailey Peacock-Farrell, who ended last season in that position.
This Is Futbol rating 6/10
Likely to happen?
The move for Blackman has gathered pace following the collapse of the pursuit of Gunn, who is headed to St Mary’s Stadium in a deal rising to a potential £13million. That exemplifies the chasm in financial resources between a Premier League club and a Championship one. Blackman is increasingly likely to join Leeds and a loan deal makes sense for all parties.
This Is Futbol rating 7/10