The Premier League winger has agreed to join Leeds United for next season

Chelsea defender Alfie Gilchrist has been linked with Leeds United and is reportedly keen on joining the club on loan this summer.

After missing out on promotion, Leeds United are gearing up for another season in the Championship.

It is widely known that the summer will be difficult as player sales will be necessary and key players will undoubtedly leave Elland Road.

Journalist Ben Jacobs has revealed that Leeds want to sign Alfie Gilchrist in a loan move this summer.

In the 2023-24 season, the 20-year-old broke into the starting line-up at Stamford Bridge and attracted interest from Championship sides.

Jacobs mentioned that the Whites are interested in a season-long loan and also names Blackburn Rovers and Preston as clubs interested in the Premier League player.

Leeds may not be able to complete a deal until after pre-season, according to Jacobs, who gave an update on the potential move on the Just Joe Football Show.

He said: “The feeling is that he will be loaned to a Championship club, that is the plan and the intention of the player. It is highly unlikely that in the position he plays Chelsea will think otherwise, the only question mark is when he is in the window as sometimes clubs like Chelsea want to take the player in pre-season.

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“I’m sure in the coming weeks he will go to a Championship club, but it could be more like the end of July or the beginning of August because of what I said. You have Leeds, Preston and Blackburn as clubs that have taken a formative approach.

“To all intents and purposes, Gilchrist would be open to a move from Leeds. He has a lot of respect, Chelsea and Leeds have a big rivalry, but he would go there anyway. He would be very willing to help Leeds fight for promotion.”

Gilchrist’s move makes sense for Leeds United and the player

Joe Rodon and Connor Roberts left Elland Road after their loan deals ended, so signing Gilchrist makes sense for Leeds United.

The player is capable of playing as both a right-back and a centre-back, and his signing would add depth and quality to Leeds’ backline.

Leeds United could be the ideal location for the defender to start as he aims to continue his outstanding season with Chelsea.