Leeds United director of football Victor Orta has made contact with Dan James’ representatives to try and trump fierce rivals Manchester United to his capture this summer, according to Football Insider.
The reputable football news website claim that the Spaniard has not given up hopes of convincing the Swansea City and Wales winger to move to Elland Road after their failed pursuit over January, despite Premier League giants and historical rivals Manchester United joining the race.
It is stated that Orta has urged James, a two-cap international, to hold off making a decision until Leeds’ play-off campaign is decided, with hopes that promotion could convince the 21-year-old to allow January’s move to be reignited.
Opinion
James has gone from strength to strength at Swansea City this season and it should come as no surprise that some of the big boys of English football have come sniffing around the Welsh outfit. Manchester United need a serious rebuild after what has been one of the most disappointing seasons at Old Trafford in recent history and in James they would be getting a talented youngster who could bring some life back to their side. Leeds meanwhile will still be ruing the fact they saw their January move collapse at the very last minute and there is absolutely no guarantee they will be given any chance to make things right in the summer. A lot depends on which division they will be playing next season and failure to secure play-off glory will all but end their chances of getting James’ signature. It seems Orta is doing what he can to make sure they stay in the running for as long as possible.