Leeds United in “advanced talks” to seal off-field move for 39-y/o who snubbed Man United – Report
Leeds United are said to be in advanced talks with Brentford sporting director Lee Dykes this week as the 49es Enterprises shape their boardroom.
The Whites are undergoing a great deal of changes this summer as they get to grips with their relegation from the Premier League back in May.
With Championship football on the agenda this season, Leeds are needing to reshape the entire club under the image of the 49ers Enterprises.
Lee Dykes to Leeds?
While Nick Hammond was confirmed as the club’s interim football advisor, the club have needed to scour for a new long-term sporting director appointment after the departure of Victor Orta in May.
Football Insider are now reporting that Leeds are in “advanced talks” with Brentford’s Lee Dykes over that nearing vacancy.
Leeds are in talks with Brentford’s technical director Lee Dykes about becoming their new sporting director as a replacement for Victor Orta. #LUFC #BrentfordFC
— Pete O’Rourke (@SportsPeteO) July 11, 2023
Who is Dykes?
Dykes is said to be well thought of at Elland Road, having impressed across England’s top four divisions with the Bees, Bury FC, Carlisle United, Notts County and others.
It comes after previous strong interest from the top end of the Premier League from Tottenham and Manchester United, snubbing the latter in June 2022 to stay on at Brentford as technical director, having been head of scouting previously.
Dykes initially joined Brentford back in May 2019, and has helped the club sign players such as Bryan Mbeumo, David Raya, Ethan Pinnock, Ivan Toney, and Yoane Wissa among others.
Where will Leeds finish in 23/24?
Automatic promotion
Play-offs
7th-12th
Bottom half
I would be very surprised if Leeds managed to bring in Dykes as Victor Orta’s replacement, and it would be an incredible improvement if so.
Dykes, coming from a Premier League club that have established themselves as very comfortable thanks to their shrewd signings and clear vision, would be immense.
It would be a shock to see him ditch a mid-table Premier League side for us, but perhaps the temptation of a new project is in his view.
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