Leeds United have transfer ‘elephant in the room’ to address, it’s even more obvious after today
Leeds United Begin Pre-Season with One Unwanted Return Creating a Stir
As Leeds United’s preparations for their return to the Premier League got underway on Monday, July 7, fans were treated to the first glimpses of their promotion-winning squad reporting back for pre-season testing. However, amongst the smiling faces and upbeat mood surrounding the return to Thorp Arch, there was one name that many supporters had hoped not to see back in the fold—Jack Harrison.
Daniel Farke’s side is wasting no time as the hard work begins for the 2024/25 campaign. With new signings already arriving, including promising additions designed to bolster both depth and quality, there is an air of optimism around Elland Road. Unlike the past six clubs promoted to the top flight, Leeds seem intent on breaking the mould, not just making up the numbers.
The intent is clear: inject fresh energy, athleticism, and genuine top-tier ability into the squad to make Leeds a competitive Premier League outfit. But with incoming transfers grabbing the headlines, the matter of outgoings has become equally important. And no case is more contentious right now than that of winger Jack Harrison.
Squad Returns to Action – With Key Players Under the Microscope
The club shared images from the squad’s return to training, showing players undergoing physical tests with bright smiles following a well-earned summer break. Among those pictured was defender Pascal Struijk, who missed the final stretch of last season due to a foot fracture. The Dutchman is now rebuilding his fitness ahead of what promises to be a challenging campaign. His partnership with Joe Rodon will face direct competition after the arrivals of centre-backs Jaka Bijol and Sebastiaan Bornauw, making this a pivotal pre-season for the pair to reassert themselves.
While attention has been rightly focused on these key players and the exciting new additions, the return of Jack Harrison has cast a shadow for many fans.
Jack Harrison’s Return Sparks Controversy Among Supporters
Despite being under contract until 2028 and still technically a Leeds United player, Harrison’s situation remains delicate. The winger has spent the past two seasons on loan at Everton following Leeds’ relegation in 2023, and while he showed flashes of quality, his impact was underwhelming in the Premier League. Across his two stints at Goodison Park, he managed just four goals and three assists in 63 appearances.
But it’s not just his on-field contributions that have drawn ire from the Leeds faithful. His departure, along with some comments and conduct from those close to him, have reportedly burned bridges with the Elland Road crowd. For many supporters, Harrison’s return in Leeds colours is unwelcome, and the thought of him featuring again at Elland Road is met with strong resistance.
Yet, he remains an asset on the club’s books—one that Farke may want to assess firsthand during pre-season. As a left-footed winger with strong pressing capabilities, he still brings certain qualities that the manager may find useful. However, his attacking output hasn’t hit the required standards for a top-flight club in recent years, and questions remain about whether he has the consistency to be relied upon at this level.
Potential Sale Could Provide Financial Boost
From a business perspective, Harrison’s situation is an opportunity. Having been signed for £11 million and now holding a book value reportedly around £2.2 million, a permanent sale could yield a significant profit under Profit and Sustainability Rules (PSR)—a factor Leeds’ decision-makers will be highly aware of.
Whether or not a return to Everton is on the cards, or a deal with another club materialises, it’s clear that something has to give. Keeping Harrison could risk dressing room tension and supporter unrest, but offloading him needs the right offer, particularly if the club want to maximise their financial gain.
All Eyes on August 18 – A Frosty Reception Awaits
Regardless of where Harrison ends up, one thing appears certain: should he remain a Leeds player come opening day, the reception at Elland Road could be a frosty one. Leeds kick off their Premier League season at home against Everton on Monday, August 18—a fixture that already promises to be emotionally charged, but even more so if Harrison is involved on either side of the pitch.
With pre-season now in full swing, Leeds United have several key decisions to make. Their ambition in the transfer market is clear, but managing the situation with Jack Harrison will be a real test of Farke’s man-management and the board’s strategic thinking. Whether he’s reintegrated or moved on, it’s a subplot that could shape the early narrative of the Whites’ top-flight return.