Former Leeds United forward Noel Whelan has suggested that the Whites could launch a sensational late move for Liverpool winger Ryan Kent.
The 22-year-old will reportedly only leave Anfield this summer on a permanent basis, with any interested party needing to make an eight-figure offer for the player’s services.
Leeds, Aston Villa, Middlesbrough and Rangers have all been linked with moves for the wide man during the current window, with Jurgen Klopp using Kent in numerous pre-season fixtures in recent weeks.
And talking to Football Insider, former Whites man and current Leeds pundit Whelan said:
Ryan Kent is available now for £10million, not for loan, and I can see Bielsa signing him, he’s one he would want. Whether we have the funds to get him remains to be seen.
But that’s why Bielsa was watching him in the Bradford-Liverpool [pre-season friendly] match. I’m sure he would have been there to speak to Klopp and get a relationship going with Liverpool over a deal.
It looks as if a permanent move away from Merseyside is a real possibility for Kent, but are the Reds right to cash in on the youngster?
Kent’s solid season on loan with Steven Gerrard at Rangers has certainly helped push the winger’s value up.
Prior to his time in Scotland, Kent struggled to make a name for himself in England. The wide man spent time on loan with Coventry City, Barnsley and Bristol City but failed to impress Klopp, who was happy to continue shipping the player out.
In terms of future quality, it looks unlikely that Kent could establish himself as a regular in the Reds side. Fellow attacking youngster, Harry Wilson, appears to be the better bet on breaking into the side, so if the Reds can bring in around £10 million for Kent, it could prove to be an excellent piece of business.
It would also give the chance for Kent to prove himself in the second tier after frustrating stints in the Championship with Barnsley and Bristol City, so a deal could be in the best interests of all parties involved.
