Leeds transfer news: Brenden Aaronson hopes take tumble as clarity arrives from RB Salzburg
Leeds United seemingly have their final answer from RB Salzburg over their pursuit of Brenden Aaronson – and it’s not the response they were hoping for.
The Whites have zoned in on their midfield as a vital area to add to in the January transfer window. While Daniel James and Junior Firpo bolstered attack and defence in the summer, midfield is an area of concern.
As such, Leeds head coach Bielsa has identified RB Salzburg star Aaronson as a key target.
United saw their opening £15million bid for the USA international swiftly rejected. That was soon followed by an increased offer of £20m, with Salzburg once again standing firm.
And despite director of football Victor Orta being in Austria for negotiations, it seems Salzburg have little desire to sell this month.
Indeed, they are currently preparing for a Champions League round-of-16 tie with Bayern Munich. And weakening their squad this month appears the last thing on their mind. As a result, The Athletic’s Phil Hay has indicated Leeds are facing disappointment.
He stated: “Sounded likely to me that Salzburg would turn the second bid down too. Haven’t been told that it’s been formally rejected but as we stand, it hasn’t been accepted.”
He also added: “If they can get Aaronson in this window then they will take him regardless.
“But even prior to this game, they’ve been clear about the fact that they’ll go for him again in the summer if they can’t get him now. I don’t feel like it’s results dependent.”
Summer deal still possible
However, it now seems Leeds finally know that the signing of Aaronson is not going to be done this month.
While a future deal remains a possibility, Salzburg are absolutely adamant in their stance that a sale won’t be sanctioned before the winter window closes.
Confirmation of their stance has arrived from Daily Express journalist Ryan Taylor.
Speaking to GiveMeSport, Taylor has revealed their response after speaking to the Austrian club for more information.
“I reached out to Salzburg to ask for a comment on the Leeds offer, which they weren’t prepared to do,” he began. “But what was reaffirmed to me was something their sporting director has said quite a few times, they don’t want to sell players this winter.”
Leeds must walk away from Brenden Aaronson deal
As such, Leeds will be left with no other option but to move on from the deal.
As a result – and barring a late change of thought – United appear unlikely to bring anyone else in before the window closes, as Hay explains.
“Leeds’ prime target is Brenden Aaronson, the United States international at Red Bull Salzburg.
“They have submitted two bids for him but neither has been accepted. Leeds have a week to decide whether or not to try to force the issue.
“One way or another, Leeds want Aaronson at Elland Road. But they are willing to wait until the summer to sign him if Salzburg maintain their stance that he is not for sale in this window.
“Aaronson is very interested in a move to England but Salzburg are under no pressure to let him go. If the Aaronson move doesn’t materialise, a quiet end to January is likely at Leeds.”
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