Leeds’ hopes of keeping 21-year-old may soon receive a big boost – opinion

In a surprising turn of events, Europa League finalists Roma appear to be working on a move to sign Leeds United defender Rasmus Kristensen this summer.

According to Gianluca Di Marzio, the Giallorossi are in talks to sign the Dane. And he is keen to make the switch to the Italian capital.

Much will depend on the terms of a potential deal. But it appears to be fair to say that it may be best for all parties for Rasmus Kristensen to leave Leeds in some capacity this summer.

Kristensen leaving must help Leeds convince Drameh to stay
Ultimately, the move has just not worked out. Kristensen was mistake-prone throughout the last season. And he ended up losing his place to Luke Ayling.

So it is hard to imagine that there will be too many Leeds fans who will be too disappointed to see Kristensen move on.

And actually, Kristensen’s departure may perhaps lead to further good news for Leeds.

Heading into next year, Ayling confirmed his plans to stay at Leeds. So had Kristensen stuck around, it was hard to imagine the Whites managing to convince Cody Drameh to stick around.

Drameh has been out on loan on a couple of occasions over the last couple of years. And he has proved to be an outstanding performer in the Championship.

So for many, Drameh is the ideal option to be Leeds’ first-choice right-back next season. However, there was a huge question mark over his future.

Drameh, understandably, has not wanted to watch his development stagnate. And thus, he has taken loan moves over sitting on the bench at Elland Road.

Obviously, Leeds can keep him this summer. But with a year left on his contract, the 21-year-old has a lot of the power in his own hands, too.

So if Drameh demanded to leave, Leeds would probably need to cash in in this window.

But if Kristensen does end up leaving for Roma, it is going to be much easier for Leeds to present a clear path to a starting spot to Drameh.

That may still not be enough. However, letting Kristensen go – even on loan – hints that Leeds see an opportunity to hold onto Drameh.

And perhaps, the full-back will finally get the chance many fans have wanted him to get for a long, long time.