Leeds United are ready to launch a loan-to-buy swoop for Liverpool attacker Ryan Kent, according to Football Insider.
The reliable news outlet claims that Leeds are preparing for the “imminent” exit of Kemar Roofe and have set their sights on Kent, 22, as a possible replacement for the ex-West Brom forward, who seems set to join Anderlecht.
It is understood that Kent is valued at £10million by Liverpool and Leeds want to sign him this summer on an initial loan deal that can be made permanent at the end of the season.
OPINION
Do Leeds really need Kent? Marcelo Bielsa already has a lot of wingers at his disposal and it’s hard to see how the Anfield man can replace Roofe, who was used more as a centre-forward by the Whites last season. Kent is a good player and could do well for most clubs in the Championship based on how well he did on loan at Rangers last term. Kent won the Scottish PFA young player of the year award after a loan spell at Ibrox that saw him score six goals and supply nine assists in 43 appearances across all competitions. Almost all of his appearances for Rangers were on the left-wing, but Bielsa already has Jack Harrison and Ezgjan Alioski who are capable of playing in that position. Helder Costa and Stuart Dallas can also play there if needed, so signing Kent would just be a waste of a loan. Leeds need a proper out-and-out striker to replace Roofe if he leavs.
