Danny Mills issues verdict on Joe Gelhardt completing Leeds United exit – ‘he’s ready’
Leeds United will not entertain bids for Joe Gelhardt this summer even if they are relegated from the Premier League, according to Danny Mills.
The former Whites defender, speaking exclusively to Football Insider, backed the 20-year-old to “thrive” if Jesse Marsch’s side drop down to the second tier.
Gelhardt has notched two goals and four assists in 19 Premier League appearances during his breakthrough season at Elland Road.
The former Wigan youngster, who is contracted until June 2024, is capped at Under-20 level for England.
Kalvin Phillips and Raphinha are among the Leeds United stars linked with a possible exit this summer if Leeds United cannot avoid the drop.
Jesse Marsch’s side must better Burnley’s result on the final day of the season (22 May) in order to extend their top-flight stay.
Mills suggested the youngster is “ready” to shine in the Championship if the worst were to happen.
“I would say he’d be playing regularly in the Championship if the worst was to happen,” he told Football Insider‘s Connor Whitley.
“Leeds would want to keep him around, and he’d thrive from dropping down – for me. He’s ready for that level, and the experience he’s had in the Premier League will just help him even more.
“He could be playing week-in, week-out. The last thing they’ll be looking to do is lose him.”
The Liverpool-born starlet has also netted seven goals in 10 appearances for Leeds United’s Under-23 side this term.
The Whites face Brentford on the final day, while Burnley face Newcastle.
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