Former Scotland and Premier League manager Alex McLeish has talked up the idea of Jack Harrison joining Leeds United on a permanent deal this summer, claiming a deal may even be done already behind the scenes.
The Lowdown: Key figure for Leeds
The 24-year-old is coming to the end of a three-year loan spell at Elland Road, with newly-crowned Premier League champions Manchester City still his official employers.
Harrison has shone at times for Leeds, scoring 18 goals in 127 appearances and playing his part in a glorious period under Marcelo Bielsa.
With the forward’s loan spell coming to an end, the Whites now need to make a decision over his future, with an option to sign him for £10million this summer expected to be taken, via Phil Hay.
The Latest: Harrison tipped to sign permanently
Speaking to Football Insider, McLeish believes it makes complete sense to do just that, with Harrison worth double that amount now:
“There’ll probably be a deadline on that clause.
“With the season that he’s had, Man City will be possibly thinking when does it expire? Because he’s now looking like a £20million player. In the current climate, £10million is something Leeds could easily do business-wise.
“Therefore, they’ll probably just be waiting for some kind of deadline and then doing it immediately before that. For all we know, talks are really amicable and it’s kind of almost a done deal.
“Three loan years and he’s grown every step of the way with Leeds’ progress. He’s like an integral part of the family now.”
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The Verdict: No-brainer for Leeds
Harrison has become such a key player that it is surely a no-brainer to retain his services, in a decision that would suit Leeds, City and the player himself.
He is the Whites’ joint-second top scorer in the league this season with eight goals, but he has also chipped in with the same number of assists, highlighting his important to a team who need proven end product to make their rip-roaring attacking style effective.
For Leeds to snap up Harrison for just £10million would be a steal, especially as his prime could still be a few years away.
In other news, a Leeds player has officially started talks over a move away from Elland Road. Find out who it is here.