Leeds wants to recruit Mudryk despite Chelsea's initial refusal

Leeds United are targeting Chelsea winger Mykhailo Mudryk on loan after their initial bid was rejected by the London club.

According to transfer expert Fabrizio Romano, 25-year-old Ukrainian international Mudryk is "100% expected to leave Chelsea on loan" before the transfer window closes. The Yorkshire club is actively working to finalize his arrival to bolster their attack under Daniel Farke. However, Chelsea has rejected Leeds' initial offer for a simple loan, though negotiations between the two clubs continue. The English club is now seeking a structure that meets Chelsea's demands.

Chelsea reportedly favor Strasbourg, but Mudryk wants to stay in the Premier League

Chelsea may instead consider loaning Mudryk to Strasbourg, a club also owned by the BlueCo group. However, the player's preference could be decisive. According to reports, Mudryk would prefer to remain in the Premier League, making a move to Leeds particularly appealing to revive his career in England. Talks between Leeds and Chelsea are ongoing to agree on loan terms, including the player's salary split. With a clear preference for Elland Road, the Whites could have a decisive advantage in the race to sign him.

A transfer to Chelsea that failed to deliver

Mudryk's move to Chelsea, after arriving for £62 million in January 2023 from Shakhtar Donetsk, has been underwhelming. The Ukrainian player has scored just 5 goals and provided 4 assists in 53 Premier League matches for the Blues. After a lengthy suspension, Chelsea sees a season-long loan as an opportunity for him to regain playing time, rediscover his rhythm, and restore his market value. The newly promoted Coventry City had also been mentioned in rumors, but Leeds now appears to be leading the race for his signature.