Report claims Leeds United no longer interested in Massimo Luongo

Add as preferred source on Google

Leeds United have reportedly cooled their interest in Australian international midfielder Massimo Luongo. 

The one-time Ballon d’Or nominee is expected to leave current club QPR this summer. The 26-year-old has shown no desire to sign a new deal in West London and with just one year remaining on his current deal at the Kiyan Prince Foundation Stadium, his exit is likely.

With that in mind, QPR are hoping to cash in on the player now rather than lose him for free. Luongo has been left out if the club’s pre-season trip to Austria and manager Mark Warburton confirmed to the club’s official website that Luongo can go. 

“Massimo has been a loyal servant of the club for the last four years and his passion and commitment for QPR has always been there for everyone to see out on the pitch.

“Massimo’s future could now lie away from QPR and therefore it is important that we prepare for that potential eventuality.”

Leeds United were credited with an interest last month. As reported by London Football News, Leeds were said to be keen on the 42-cap international, along with Nottingham Forest. 

However, the same publication has now reported that Leeds boss Marcelo Bielsa is looking elsewhere.

With reports of Leeds interest in Stoke City midfielder Ryan Woods, the timing of this Luongo update does make sense. 

Luongo would have been a good addition to the Leeds midfield. However, it is clear that money is tight at Elland Road this summer. As reported by the Daily Mail, Luongo joined QPR in a joint deal involving Ben Gladwin believed to be in the region of £3.5 million. Undoubtedly, QPR would want a similar fee for the player. 

It also seems that Leeds are happy with their midfield options. The Sun on Sunday’s report (07/07/2019, pg61) regarding Woods suggested Leeds were only looking at the central midfielder as a potential back-up plan if Kalvin Phillips departs for Aston Villa. As reported by The Sun, £30m-valued Phillips is a major target for the newly promoted Premier League side. 

So if Leeds cooling their interest in Luongo is a sign of confidence regarding Phillips’ future or potentially a hint at a play for Woods, fans are likely to be comfortable with this latest update.