D-day is nigh regarding Leeds United loan star Max Gradel – with boss Simon Grayson aiming to pull out all the stops to keep hold of the wing flyer.
The Ivory Coast ace has proved a big crowd favourite during his month's stay and Grayson is to intensify his efforts to extend Gradel's loan by speaking to Leicester City counterpart Nigel Pearson following last night's Johnstone's Paint Trophy win over Grimsby Town.
The 20-year-old played the final game of his initial month stint in the 3-1 quarter-final success over the Mariners at Elland Road, with Town defender Olly Lancashire deflecting Gradel's cross into his own net after 40 minutes for United's opener.
Gradel's spell had been due to end on November 14 but United's scheduled League One clash at Swindon Town has been called off due to international commitments.
Grayson is eager to secure the flying frontman's services for an extended period, while Gradel is reportedly keen to extend his stay having had limited Championship exposure this season with City.
Grayson said: "I think he'd like to stay here. We'll have to wait and see. Hopefully, if the two parties agree to it, that might be the case.
"We're giving him first-team opportunities to go and play some football and he had limited opportunities at Leicester."
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