Leeds United have endured a tough summer transfer window as they’ve had to deal with key assets departing.
Now, they face the prospect of losing playmaker Georginio Rutter after Brighton activated his £40m release clause.
The Frenchman’s clause expired at midnight on Thursday and it’s understood The Seagulls were the only club to trigger it.
Now, Rutter has just made his decision about whether he’ll stay or leave.
Georginio Rutter has decided to leave Leeds United
Sky Sports journalist Florian Plettenberg has just taken to X to reveal that Rutter has agreed to join Brighton.
The 22-year-old was one of the standout players in the Championship last term and recorded a staggering 16 assists across all competitions.
Brighton made two offers earlier in the window but evidently, as the clock ticked, they decided to pay his full release clause just before it expired.
Plettenberg has now revealed that a medical could be scheduled and undertaken this week ahead of a move to the South Coast.
For Leeds, the process to find a replacement is urgent.
Leeds simply have to keep Wilfried Gnonto
Leeds simply have to keep Wilfried Gnonto at the football club.
Crysencio Summerville has already left for West Ham United, Archie Gray has departed for Tottenham and now their most creative player in Rutter is on the verge of exiting Elland Road.
Gnonto must now become untouchable and they have to build the team around him.
The Italy international has the potential to become this season’s Championship Player of the Year and could be a ticket out of the division.
The 49ers should consider offering him a new deal to fend off interest.