‘Disharmony’: Pundit says Leeds would be making a mistake sending 21-year-old to a ‘potential rival’

Carlton Palmer suggests that loaning Charlie Cresswell to Middlesbrough would be a misstep for Leeds United. Cresswell, who has struggled to secure playing time this season, playing only a minute since the Carabao Cup exit in August, was expected to have a breakthrough year at Elland Road after a successful loan spell at Millwall. However, this hasn’t materialized, leading to interest from Middlesbrough for a potential loan deal in January to bolster their defense.

Palmer acknowledges that a loan move could benefit Cresswell but argues against sending him to a potential rival like Middlesbrough. Despite Cresswell’s frustration with limited playing time, Leeds is cautious about allowing him to join a club that could be considered a competitor. Palmer emphasizes that Leeds, currently performing well in the league, would prefer not to create discord within the team and would likely include a 24-hour immediate recall clause in any loan agreement.

Cresswell, currently the fourth-choice center-back at Leeds, has been in only one of the last eight matchday squads, hindering his development. As a result, Leeds faces a decision on Cresswell’s future, considering potential alternatives in the center-back market if he departs. One such option is Nathaniel Adjei from Hammarby, who has been linked with a move to Leeds as a possible like-for-like replacement.