Victor Orta has encouraged Leeds United to retain Jack Harrison, who is set for contract talks at Elland Road after a proposed move to Leicester City reportedly had the plug pulled on it late in the January transfer window.
Leeds brought Harrison to Elland Road in 2018, initially on loan, from Manchester City.
The 26-year-old has been a key cog since then under Marcelo Bielsa and Jesse Marsch, making 186 appearances, scoring 30 goals and registering 29 assists for the club.
The Athletic detail how Leeds’ Director of Football, Victor Orta, advised the Whites to retain Harrison in January, despite the fact the winger had headed south for a medical with Leicester: “Director of football Victor Orta recruited Harrison from City in the first place and advised the club to keep him.”
A long-term contract and pay rise were on the table at Leicester, yet Leeds had a late change of heart and retained Harrison on deadline day. He’s now training this week as normal and should be in contention for Sunday’s trip to Nottingham Forest in the Premier League.
Leeds also plan to hold talks with Harrison over a contract extension at Elland Road and are said to be hopeful “that Harrison is open to accepting improved terms and staying beyond his present contract”, which expires in the summer of 2024.
Should Leeds sell Harrison?
Yes
No
Leeds have good options in the wide positions: Luis Sinisterra, Willy Gnonto, Crysencio Summerville and Brenden Aaronson, alongside Harrison, of course.
However, Harrison is a proven performer at this level, having struck 16 goals across two seasons in the Premier League. Whilst the aforementioned quartet are all exciting young talents, they haven’t done what Harrison has at this level before.
Additionally, Marsch is almost reinventing Harrison into an 8/10 hybrid in a midfield three, with that central position really suiting the classy left-footer.
You can see why Orta advised Leeds to keep him and, having done just that, it’s important Harrison’s contract is sorted out.