Leeds 'desperate' to have £60k-a-week star at Elland Road next season

Leeds United ‘will be desperate to keep hold of’ winger Jack Harrison over the upcoming transfer window, according to journalist Pete O’Rourke.

The 25-year-old has been linked with a move away from Elland Road in recent weeks after enjoying an impressive run of form in the second half of the season.

According to The Telegraph, Newcastle United ‘are interested’ in signing Harrison as they look to step up their development under their new Saudi owners.

It’s claimed that the Magpies have a long-term interest in the former England Under-21 international, who earns £60,000-per-week, and are expected to make a bid for him over the course of the summer.

However, Newcastle are said to fear that Leeds’ Premier League survival could complicate any potential deal as they will now not be able to activate any relegation release clause.

But that is unlikely to prevent the St. James’ Park outfit from trying their luck, and the top-flight’s latest financial powerhouse could test Harrison’s desire to stay put.

Leeds could face a battle to keep hold of several of their top stars, with fellow winger Raphinha heavily linked to Barcelona, while key midfielder Kalvin Phillips is believed to be on the radar of multiple sides.

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And O’Rourke believes that unless the Whites receive ‘big, big money’, they ‘will be looking’ to retain the services of Harrison for at least another year.

He told GiveMeSport: “For me, I think he’s a talented winger, and I’m sure Leeds will be desperate to keep hold of him. So, unless it’s big, big money, I would imagine Leeds will be looking to keep hold of Jack Harrison for next season.”

Over the last couple of campaigns, Harrison has established