Reports linking Szymanski with a move to Leeds unfounded

EXCLUSIVE: Leeds United’s Pursuit of Sebastian Szymański Dismissed as Baseless

Speculation surrounding a potential move to Leeds United for Fenerbahçe’s midfield maestro Sebastian Szymański has been dismissed as unfounded, according to reliable sources close to the player in Turkey. The 26-year-old Poland international had been repeatedly linked with a switch to Elland Road in recent weeks, stirring excitement among Leeds supporters eager to see a creative No.10 join the ranks ahead of their Premier League return.

Szymański, who arrived at Fenerbahçe from Dutch side Feyenoord, has enjoyed a productive spell in Istanbul, drawing the attention of clubs across Europe with his sharp passing, goal contributions, and versatility in midfield. With two years left on his current contract, there had been reports that the player was open to new challenges—an openness that only added fuel to the fire of ongoing transfer rumours.

Leeds United, in particular, have been touted as keen admirers, with various outlets suggesting that the West Yorkshire club had placed Szymański high on their summer shortlist. However, those close to the player have come forward to set the record straight. A trusted Turkish source speaking to The Breakfast Debate this morning categorically denied any discussions between Leeds and the player or his representatives. In fact, it was revealed that Szymański himself has refuted the claims, bringing an air of clarity to the situation.

The denial aligns with multiple reports from Turkish media, which have remained consistent in rejecting the Leeds rumours. As it stands, there appears to be no active negotiations involving the Championship runners-up and the Fenerbahçe star, and a move to Elland Road looks highly unlikely at this stage.

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Controversial Red Card for Gnonto Draws Sharp Criticism from Former Ref Chief Hackett

In other Leeds-related news, a contentious red card shown to Italy’s Willy Gnonto during a dramatic UEFA Euro U21 Championship clash against Germany has sparked debate among fans and footballing figures alike. The 20-year-old forward, who plays his club football for Leeds United, was dismissed late in the match after receiving a second yellow card for a challenge on Germany’s Max Rosenfelder—an incident that has since drawn significant scrutiny.

Former Premier League referee and ex-PGMOL boss Keith Hackett has come to Gnonto’s defense, expressing disbelief at the referee’s decision. Speaking exclusively to Football Insider, Hackett questioned the legitimacy of the foul call that led to Gnonto’s expulsion just ten minutes from full-time. “Crikey. I’ve seen enough,” Hackett said. “I’m finding it difficult to see that as a foul, let alone something deserving of a second yellow card.”

Hackett speculated that the referee—still in the early stages of their officiating career—may have been overly cautious due to the intensity and significance of the match. He suggested that the decision may have been driven more by a desire to avoid potential controversy or injury than by a clear infraction on the pitch.

“It’s important to remember,” Hackett added, “that this tournament is a developmental ground not just for young players, but also for referees. Mistakes will happen. But in this case, I believe the official erred on the side of caution, and unfortunately, it came at Gnonto’s expense.”

The red card proved costly for Italy, who were subsequently eliminated from the tournament, while Germany secured a semi-final berth and will now face France on Wednesday, June 25. For Gnonto, the incident is a frustrating chapter in what has otherwise been a promising international campaign. For Italy and their fans, it marks a bitter end to a tournament that had held high hopes.

The controversy underscores the growing pains of youth football—where both talent and officiating continue to evolve under the pressure of the spotlight.