Leeds United have been given the green light to seal one of their mooted summer transfer targets...
What's the word?
According to The Sun, back in May, the Yorkshire giants were one of the teams said to be interested in signing centre-back Jake Clarke-Salter and now following his release from Chelsea, Whites director of football Victor Orta is free to strike.
Over the weekend, the Blues announced that several players were to be released following the end of their contract, including the 24-year-old, who enjoyed a spell on loan to Coventry City last season.
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Sheffield United and the Sky Blues were also mentioned with interest in the report, too.
He could become their third summer signing after the arrival of RB Salzburg duo Brenden Aaronson and Rasmus Kristensen.
Free-agent bargain
Leeds had the second-worst defensive record in the Premier League last season, so adding a new option would certainly be a smart decision. The likes of Robin Koch and Diego Llorente have flattered to deceive since they arrived in west Yorkshire.
Only relegated Norwich City conceded more goals than Jesse Marsch's men.
It's hard to imagine Clarke-Salter making an instant impact at Elland Road. However, competition for places could help elevate the game of others and eventually, he may well be trusted to start.
"When he's played, he's been absolutely outstanding," claimed Coventry boss Mark Robins, whilst back in 2016, he caught the eye of Stamford Bridge great John Terry.
"Jake has a great attitude,' said the former England captain. 'I remember watching him a couple of years ago being in control of the game and a really vocal player. He reminds me a bit of myself."
The young defender ranked as Coventry's sixth-best performer in the Championship in 2021/22, averaging a WhoScored rating of 6.80. He also won an average of 3.6 aerial duels, 2.3 tackles and 1.2 interceptions, too.
On the above evidence, he would be a really solid signing for Leeds and one that Orta must press head to make in the coming weeks. The door has now opened to strike, so it's on the Spaniard to deliver a third summer signing, all without costing a penny.
AND in other news, Leeds winger Raphinha subject to fresh Premier League interest...