Speculation continues to swirl around the future of Leeds United’s players this summer. There are various theories on which talents want to stay or leave and which names the club wants to move on or keep.
As United’s record signing as recently as January, Georginio Rutter is among those generating debate. LeedsLive understands club and player are keen to carry on into next season despite the French forward’s struggles up to now.
The 21-year-old only appeared for 273 minutes across 11 appearances, with one start, in the four months he had with Leeds last term. Clearly, a lot more football needs to be played before the jury can return a verdict on Rutter.
Rutter’s opportunities in the Championship will be dictated by who else the club moves in and out of Elland Road. If Rodrigo moves on, as expected, and the likes of Jack Harrison or Wilfried Gnonto find their ways out, Rutter could become a key forward in the second tier.
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The commitment between Rutter and Leeds has not stopped the rumour mill from producing tales of interest from Hoffenheim, his former employer. Whether there is real interest from Rhein-Neckar-Arena or not, warm memories of Rutter in those parts were aired this week.
In what appears to have been a poll among supporters, one of the two goals Rutter scored for Hoffenheim last season has been voted the club’s Goal of the Season. Last August, Rutter cut in off the right flank and powered the ball home with his left foot into the top, far corner against Bayer Leverkusen in a 3-0 away win.
The forward acknowledged the award on his Instagram account. Given it was awarded by fans, the prize underlines the esteem Rutter is still held in over there despite his January escape from the club.
It’s the kind of dynamic finishing Rutter is yet to demonstrate in Leeds colours. Rutter is among the group of players expected to report for day one of pre-season from Sunday, July 2.
