Jack Harrison signing a new deal to extend his stay at Leeds United is a huge boost according to Pete O'Rourke.

What's the word?

Harrison was the subject of transfer interest from Leicester City late in the window, but the deal never materialised.

He is now set to end all speculation and sign a new deal, which may provide some relief to Leeds fans concerned that he was to depart.

Speaking to GiveMeSport, O'Rourke claimed that keeping him will provide a boost, particularly as the 26-year-old would not have joined a relegation rival.

"I think it’s a massive boost," he stated.

"You don’t want to lose any of your key players if you’re fighting in a relegation battle, which Leeds are right now, so to possibly see Jack Harrison go to a relegation rival in Leicester would have been a big blow to Leeds United.”

A surprising move?

According to Rob Dorsett, Harrison was set to complete a move to Leicester before Leeds decided to match their wage offer at the last minute, and ultimately turned down the £20m offer.

Given that Leeds now have a number of wide options including Luis Sinisterra, Wilfried Gnonto and new signing Georginio Rutter, Harrison may not be a starter at the club, and with his previous deal set to expire in 2024, £20m could have been a tempting fee for the club.

Harrison is a useful player for his workrate, ranking in the top 8% of attacking midfielders and wingers for tackles and interceptions as per FBref, but with just one goal in 17 games this season, he will need to increase his output or risk losing his place in the side.