Done Deal: ‘Fantastic’ Leeds player rejects Elland Road deal and passes medical at new club on Wednesday and will leave just like Archie Gray

Leeds United is set to lose another talented young player from their Thorp Arch academy, as Jamie Shackleton has rejected a new deal at Elland Road and passed a medical at Championship rivals Sheffield United. Shackleton, 24, has been a versatile and valuable player for Leeds, earning praise from former player Ross McCormack, who described him as “fantastic”.

Despite his potential, Shackleton struggled for game time last season, making only a handful of appearances. However, his talent and attitude have not gone unnoticed, with Leeds manager Daniel Farke hinting at a new deal for Shackleton earlier in the season.

However, it appears that Shackleton has decided to move on from Leeds, with Sheffield United closing in on a deal to sign him on a free transfer. According to Graham Smyth of the Yorkshire Evening Post, Shackleton underwent a medical at Sheffield United on Wednesday and is set to sign a permanent deal with the club.

The move will see Shackleton return to Elland Road on October 19, when Sheffield United visit Leeds in the Championship. The reverse fixture will take place at Bramall Lane on February 22.

While Leeds fans may be disappointed to see Shackleton leave, it is clear that he needs to be playing more regularly at this stage in his career. At 24, Shackleton is no longer a young prospect, and he needs to be a first-choice player to continue his development.

Sheffield United, managed by Chris Wilder, are likely to offer Shackleton the playing time he needs, and the move could be a smart one for both parties. Leeds, meanwhile, will need to rebuild their squad after a summer of departures, including Archie Gray’s £40m move to Tottenham Hotspur.

Leeds fans are still waiting to hear about the futures of Liam Cooper, Cody Drameh, and Jamie Shackleton, who were all offered new deals by the club. However, with Shackleton now set to join Sheffield United, it appears that Leeds will need to look elsewhere to strengthen their squad.

In conclusion, Jamie Shackleton’s move to Sheffield United is a significant development for both clubs. While Leeds will miss his versatility and attitude, Shackleton needs to be playing more regularly at this stage in his career. Sheffield United, meanwhile, have secured a talented young player who could help them push for promotion.