Respected football journalist David Ornstein has claimed that Joe Bryan is set to stay at Fulham despite strong interest in Leeds United transfer news columns.
With Newcastle United also interested in a move for the Fulham left-back, Bryan has ended discussions over his future by committing to a new long-term deal at Craven Cottage.
Writing on The Athletic’s website, Ornstein confirmed that Leeds, Newcastle, Leicester City and West Bromwich Albion were all keen on a move for the 26-year-old.
However, Fulham’s playoff hero has ended any speculation of a summer departure exit and the Whites may have to target another defender in the coming weeks.
Ornstein’s colleague Phil Hay reported that Bryan had been touted as a left-back target for the club but mentioned that the Yorkshire giants had yet to place an official bid.
Leeds have been linked with a number of left-backs this summer, with Sky Sports hinting at an Elland Road exit for Barry Douglas.
With Douglas potentially now staying at the club, it looks like Leeds will not need to sign a new left-back this summer. If they do, it certainly won’t be Bryan.
Jordan Stevens On Verge Of Swindon Switch
Leeds suffered a narrow defeat to Liverpool on the opening weekend of their return to the Premier League but Stevens is unlikely to be part of the squad for much longer.
Swindon Town manager Richie Wellens has confirmed that the Leeds winger will join the Robins before the end of the summer transfer window.
The Whites have waited to return to the Premier League for 16 years but Stevens will not be part of their plans for the remainder of the 2020/21 campaign.
However, Stevens is likely to return to Elland Road after just one season on loan and the 20-year-old is still well regarded at the club.
Ally McCoist Heaps Praise On Leeds
Football legend Ally McCoist has claimed that Leeds United may be his “second team” after being so impressed by Marcelo Bielsa’s impact at Elland Road.
The former Rangers striker commented on Leeds’ chances of avoiding relegation from the Premier League this season and the Whites sent shockwaves across England’s top table after their exploits in the 4-3 defeat at Anfield.
Speaking to McCoist, TalkSPORT host Laura Woods suggested the ‘second team’ idea to the Scot on Monday morning – and the former Rangers man attributes their appeal to Bielsa.
? Laura: “Leeds have almost become people’s second team...”
— talkSPORT (@talkSPORT) September 14, 2020
? Ally: “You are absolutely right and it’s definitely the Bielsa factor!”
Laura Woods & Ally McCoist ask if #LUFC are now becoming a favourite amongst fans of other PL teams ⚪️
Leeds as your 2nd team... discuss ? pic.twitter.com/P23AyyPUuJ
“I don’t know if I’m allowed to say this but I’ll say it quietly just in case. But they’ve almost become peoples’ second team,” said Woods.
McCoist responded: “You’re absolutely right. Do you know why? It’s definitely the Bielsa factor.
“I understand the rivalry between clubs and Leeds United, with other clubs, might not be the most popular. But Bielsa’s brought a second-club factor about them.”
When pressed by Woods on whether Leeds are now McCoist’s second team, the Scotland star replied: “I need to have a think about that!”
*Credit for the main photo belongs to Manu Fernandez / AP Photo*
