Eunan O’Kane and Caleb Ekuban are both likely to leave Leeds United before the loan window shuts, according to the Yorkshire Evening Post.
The regional newspaper claim that central midfielder O’Kane, 28, and striker Ekuban, 24, have been made surplus to requirements by Marcelo Bielsa and given the green light to find new clubs.
The Yorkshire Evening Post report that O’Kane and Ekuban both failed to attract permanent offers on deadline day but temporary exits are still on the cards as the loan window is open until 31 August.
OPINION
The Leeds summer overhaul is not done yet. The club have already offloaded 12 players on loan or permanently, and just five have been recruited, three of whom have come in on temporary deals. But Bielsa clearly prefers a lean squad rather than a bloated one, and wants rid of O’Kane and Ekuban, regardless of whether new players come in before the loan window cut-off. Certainly, few tears will be shed from the Leeds faithful should O’Kane leave. Signed from Bournemouth two years, he has good Championship experience and is a Republic of Ireland international, but the 28-year-old has never looked comfortable in the sometimes unforgiving Elland Road spotlight. As for Ekuban, he is popular with Leeds fans who appreciate his enthusiasm and honest effort. However, there are serious question marks as to his suitability for a promotion-chasing side. His first season was disrupted by two serious foot injuries but a return of two goals from 21 matches was wretched.