AliousFootball analyst Dan Bardell has proposed that the potential departure of Jamie Shackleton from Leeds United this summer could be advantageous for everyone involved.
Leeds United’s official website (7 June) announced that negotiations were underway to extend Shackleton’s contract, which was set to expire at the end of June.
However, according to Adam Pope’s report (27 June), Sheffield United, Leeds’ Yorkshire rivals, have expressed interest in acquiring the 24-year-old on a free transfer.
Bardell, who contributes to Sky Sports and talkSPORT, believes that a move away from Elland Road might benefit both Shackleton and Leeds United.
In an exclusive interview with MOT Leeds News, Bardell stated, “I think his progress at Leeds may have stagnated.
While a move could be positive for his career, it wouldn’t necessarily be a significant loss for Leeds.”
He added, “Leeds have more pressing concerns than Shackleton’s potential exit this summer.
They’ll likely wish him well, given his academy background, but I don’t think Leeds fans should be overly concerned about this potential transfer.”
The midfield at Elland Road is expected to undergo changes under new manager Daniel Farke, with several transfers both in and out of the club anticipated.
This transformation has already seen Archie Gray depart for Tottenham Hotspur, as confirmed on Tuesday (2 July).
Shackleton was among the first to congratulate the 18-year-old Gray on his move.
Now, the 24-year-old midfielder might follow suit if he can’t reach an agreement with Leeds in the near future.
Both Shackleton and Liam Cooper have been offered new contracts, but Leeds has not provided any updates despite the transfer window being in full swing.
Given that Shackleton hasn’t made a significant impact at Leeds or during his loan spell at Millwall, a fresh start could be beneficial.
While it’s evident that Farke is keen to retain Shackleton, the allure of joining Sheffield United might prove too strong for the player to resist this summer.
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