Leeds United handed boost in pursuit of £30m Man City star as summer 'target' makes contract decision

Leeds United could be top of the Championship going into the weekend but getting there will not be simple, with current frontrunners Sunderland their Friday night hosts. Daniel Farke’s side have taken four points from their last two games and will hope to secure an unbeaten three-game week before the October international break.

They will attempt to do so without several first-team regulars, however, with Ilia Gruev the latest to suffer a knee injury - albeit the severity is not yet known, with the Bulgarian due for scans. Those passed fit for the game will head north to the Stadium of Light on Friday and in the meantime, the YEP has rounded up some of the latest stories surrounding the club.

McAtee future

Leeds could be boosted in their pursuit of James McAtee with reports suggesting the attacking midfielder is considering his future. GiveMeSport claim McAtee is ‘desperate’ to learn of his role at Manchester City this season and could look to find regular football elsewhere if it is not forthcoming at the Etihad.

McAtee was a summer target for Leeds, with CEO Angus Kinnear naming him among several options they approached in a bid to strengthen at No.10, but Pep Guardiola made clear his desire to keep the 21-year-old at City. However, having played just 200 minutes of competitive football, he could look to find football elsewhere.

McAtee is said to be planning talks with Guardiola to see where he lies in the first-team set up, with a January loan move possible. It remains to be seen whether Leeds will rekindle their interest in the young star.

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Ogbus contract

Reported summer target Bruno Ogbus has committed his future to current club SC Freiburg, putting pen to paper on a fresh contract. The details of the deal have not been confirmed but look to have staved off any future interest in the 18-year-old defender.

“Bruno caught our attention after a great season with the U19s as well as with his displays for the second team last year,” Freiburg sporting director Klemens Hartenbach said. “He has continued to develop after a seamless transition into the first team during pre-season.

“His tough tackling and speed are really impressive, and his versatility across the back line is a real asset. We hope to be able to assist his development together going forward.”