Leeds United Transfer Woes: Souttar Set to Remain at Leicester, Defensive Options Diminish

Leeds United‘s bid to reinforce their defensive ranks faces a setback as Leicester’s centre-back, Harry Souttar, appears set to remain at the King Power Stadium for the rest of the 2023-24 season. Despite interest from Sheffield United, sources indicate that Souttar is not expected to make a move.

Whites’ manager, Daniel Farke, keen to bolster his defensive options in the January window, faces disappointment as top targets, including Ben Godfrey, remain unattainable. Leeds’ failed attempt at a loan move for Godfrey, who is staying at Everton, adds to the challenges of strengthening the defensive lineup.

Souttar, a 25-year-old centre-back, has struggled to find stability at Leicester since his £15 million transfer from Stoke City in January 2023. With only 16 appearances for the Foxes, including just four this season, his limited playing time has prompted speculation about his future. Leicester boss Enzo Maresca’s decisions to omit Souttar from the matchday squad further fuel uncertainty, with the player’s last appearance dating back to a 3-0 win over Rotherham in December.

Leeds United, currently trailing Leicester by 12 points in the Championship table, are actively pursuing defensive reinforcements, especially after an injury to Pascal Struijk left Farke with thin defensive options. Despite boasting an impressive defensive record with 26 league goals conceded in 29 matches, Farke’s side recognizes the need for depth to sustain their pursuit of the league leaders.

In unrelated developments, Leeds United and Ipswich Town are reportedly eyeing late moves for a Newcastle United ace, adding intrigue to the closing stages of the January transfer window. The focus remains on Leeds United’s defensive challenges and their efforts to address them before the deadline.