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Photo by Alex Dodd - CameraSport via Getty Images
Photo by Alex Dodd - CameraSport via Getty Images

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Report: Leeds midfielder set to sign new contract this week, before going on loan

Will Butcher
Will Butcher

that Leeds United midfielder Alfie McCalmont is to sign a new three-year contract at Elland Road this week – with a view to going on loan during 2020-21, along with two others.

McCalmont, 20, made his debut for Leeds earlier this season but may have been frustrated that he was unable to add to his two Carabao Cup appearances. He appeared on the bench in the Championship four times.

The six-time Northern Ireland Under-21 international has entered the final 12 months of his contract at Leeds but is highly-rated by Marcelo Bielsa – who has moulded the midfielder into a Kalvin Phillips-like number four.

It is expected that McCalmont – who is renowned for his admiration of Northern Ireland stalwart Stuart Dallas – is to sign a three-year contract this week. He is also expected to go on loan, as are Ryan Edmondson and Robbie Gotts.

TBR’s view – McCalmont loan is ideal for player

Yes, he has the potential to become a part of Bielsa’s plans and adhere to the Argentine’s style. No, he is not good enough yet and yes, he desperately needs to go on loan, gain experience and then return a better player.

Signing for a Championship side, or even a team in League One that have the style of playing keep ball is crucial. If McCalmont can find a team such as that, and get regular game time, then it will be of enormous benefit.