O'Rourke Exclusive: Big Leeds transfer update

Leeds United have pulled the plug on a deal to sign Cheikhou Kouyate as a free agent, sources have told Football Insider.

Leeds had held talks with the former Nottingham Forest, Crystal Palace and West Ham midfielder’s camp, but are not currently planning to further their discussions.

This comes after Football Insider revealed on 11 October that the Elland Road club were weighing up whether to offer a contract to the 34-year-old.

Injuries to key midfielders Ethan Ampadu and Ilia Gruev had forced Daniel Farke’s side to consider their options, with both expected to be sidelined until the new year.

Kouyate’s availability as an experienced head to add to their midfield had interested the Leeds hierarchy but they have now decided against pursuing a deal.

This is despite reports claiming an official offer had been made to the former Senegal international, as Leeds will now turn their attention to alternative options.

Leeds United make Cheikhou Kouyate transfer decision after new talks

Kouyate was considered likely to make the move to Leeds at one stage after conversations began between the two camps, but talks did not progress as expected.

The 34-year-old made 324 appearances across spells at Nottingham Forest, Crystal Palace and West Ham, but featured just 14 times for Forest last time out.

He was allowed to leave the City Ground upon the expiry of his contract as they looked to cut their wage bill, and he remains available on a free transfer.

The experience and knowledge of English football and the Premier League that the midfielder would have brought to the club was seen as a potential boost to Farke’s young side.

However, with a number of alternative options on the table at Elland Road, interest in the midfielder’s signature has faded.

With Ampadu and Gruev ruled out of action until January, the Leeds hierarchy will continue to assess how best to support Farke’s team in the short term.

This could include turning to their under-21s side or even recalling one of their on-loan stars to make an immediate impression on the first team.

In other news, Luca Thomas is in talks over a move to a new club.

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The post O'Rourke Exclusive: Big Leeds transfer update appeared first on Football Insider.