Sport nationPortsmouth FC is actively pursuing the signing of Liam Cooper, a 32-year-old defender who is currently a free agent after his contract with Leeds United expired at the end of last season. According to sources close to Thorp Arch, Cooper’s time at Leeds United is over, and he will not be staying on at Elland Road.
This development comes amidst unrest at Leeds United, with fans unhappy about the team’s winless start to the season and the lack of new signings despite selling several key players for over £100 million. The club’s manager, Daniel Farke, hinted earlier in August that Cooper’s time at the club was up, speaking about the center-back as though he had already left.
Cooper’s departure from Leeds United is not surprising, given the club’s current situation. The team has struggled to find form this season, and the fans are growing increasingly frustrated with the lack of progress. The sale of key players like Archie Gray, Glen Kamara, Crysencio Summerville, and Georginio Rutter has not been replaced with adequate signings, leading to a sense of discontent among the supporters.
Portsmouth, on the other hand, is looking to strengthen their squad with the signing of Cooper. The club drew 3-3 with Leeds United on the opening day of the season and is now pursuing the defender to bolster their defense. Manager John Mousinho has played down previous reports linking the club with a move for Cooper, but sources suggest that a free transfer to Fratton Park is an option for the former Leeds captain.
Cooper’s free-agent status means he is under no pressure to make a decision, and he is also being pursued by Blackburn Rovers. However, the parties have failed to strike an agreement, with Cooper’s camp hesitating over a one-year deal. Leeds United had made a verbal offer to Cooper to stay, but it included a wage less than what is expected in League One.
The situation at Leeds United is complex, with the club facing financial constraints and struggling to attract new signings. The fans are growing restless, and the pressure is mounting on the manager and the board to deliver results. In contrast, Portsmouth is looking to build on their positive start to the season and is keen to sign Cooper to strengthen their squad.
In other Leeds United news, Sunderland has made a new decision on Jack Clarke, and the club is working to address fan unrest and strengthen their squad before the transfer window closes. The situation at Elland Road is fluid, and it remains to be seen how the club will navigate the challenges ahead.
In conclusion, Liam Cooper’s departure from Leeds United is a significant development in the club’s tumultuous season. Portsmouth’s pursuit of the defender highlights the club’s ambition to strengthen their squad and build on their positive start to the season. As the transfer window enters its final stages, it will be interesting to see how Leeds United and Portsmouth navigate the challenges ahead.
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