Former Premier League striker Kevin Phillips says it will be a “big boost” if Leeds United don’t have to fork out for Jean-Kevin Augustin this summer.
The Whites will be hoping to build on an excellent season back in the Premier League in the summer transfer window and having the funds available to make the required additions will be vital for Marcelo Bielsa.
Augustin could yet play a pivotal role in that respect. Leeds signed the RB Leipzig forward on loan back in January 2020 and had an option to sign him permanently at the end of the 2019/20 campaign.
He flopped at Elland Road, however, making just three appearances, but Leipzig claimed that the Whites’ failure to earn promotion to the top flight by June 30 meant they had an obligation to buy for £17.7m.
Phillips hopeful over Augustin saga
Speaking to Football Insider, Phillips gave his thoughts on the saga, discussing the importance of Leeds not having to pay for Augustin. He said:
“It would be a big boost if they do not have to fork out for that because they can use that money somewhere else.
“They can use it to strengthen in key areas this summer with a striker one of the main things I think they need. I think it is something they will be looking at.
“If they can avoid paying that £15million or so it could go a long way to helping them pursue their summer targets.
“It did not work out with Augustin so let’s hope they do not have to pay it. It would be a big boost for the club.”
Transfer Tavern take
It certainly appears as though Leeds are in a strong position as per a recent update from Beren Cross, but it would be a setback if they have to eat into their summer transfer budget by stumping up the aforementioned fee for Augustin.
Bielsa no doubt has his eyes on potential reinforcements this summer, but having to suddenly find the money to pay for the 23-year-old could seriously hamper the club’s progress.
It looks like that might not happen, though, so Leeds should instead be able to focus on signing individuals they believe will take them up another level.
In other news, a reliable journalist has made a key claim regarding Leeds’ interest in one experienced player. Find out who it is here.