Leeds left-footer’s latest Instagram post hints he is staying, amid interest from Serie A club – Opinion
Leo Hjelde has posted on Instagram in Leeds United’s new training kit after returning to pre-season training on Monday, having represented Norway at the U21 Euros – and his post is surely a sign that he will be staying put.
While relegation to the Championship is a massive financial hit for the club, and will see a number of players go in order to pursue top-flight football – for the likes of Hjelde. Bought from Celtic in 2021, he has only played five times.
The 19-year-old defender went on loan to Rotherham for the second half of last season, playing 13 games for The Millers. Having represented Norway at Euro 2021, he is now back at Leeds. But there is interest in the left footer.
Sky Sports in Italy reported recently that Serie A side Salernitana have held talks to land Hjelde from Leeds for the 23-24 campaign. But nothing has materialised since, and it looks as though Hjelde will stay – as per his latest post.
Leo Hjelde post on Instagram surely a sign he is staying at Leeds United
You will not see the likes of Illan Meslier, Rodrigo, Marc Roca or Willy Gnonto posting on Instagram in this manner. It is clear that the defender is simply looking forward to playing for Leeds this season – and feels he has a chance.
This campaign has been eyed as a breakthrough year for many. Darko Gyabi in midfield, Cody Drameh on the right of the defence, Charlie Cresswell in the middle, Sam Greenwood as a 10. You could add Hjelde to that list, wide left.
Junior Firpo is more than likely to leave before the end of the summer window. Behind him, Leeds have little options. Pascal Struijk is naturally a central defender and Hjelde is our next best. He might be given the chance to start.
