Leeds United confirm second loan exit for forgotten man overlooked by Daniel Farke

A second loan exit of the summer transfer window has been sealed at Leeds United with Sonny Perkins on his way out. The 20-year-old has failed to make an impression on Daniel Farke and will spend the forthcoming season with Leyton Orient in League One.

Perkins was among the players kept at Elland Road for the start of last season and even got a cameo from the bench in the opening-day draw with Cardiff City. However, the forward was conspicuous by his absence from the matchday squad at Birmingham City one week later.

Farke had named an undermanned bench, including two goalkeepers, despite the fact Perkins was available for selection. The manager would later suggest the former West Ham United youth’s training level had not justified inclusion.

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Surplus to requirements and training with the under-21s, Perkins secured a loan to Oxford United before the end of last summer’s window. However, Liam Manning found little use for him and the season-long deal was ended on January 3 after just three league appearances.

Perkins returned to Thorp Arch and played with Scott Gardner’s under-21s until the end of the campaign. The attacker now links up with Richie Wellens at Brisbane Road, where Leyton finished 11th last term.

There is one year remaining on the contract Perkins signed with Leeds when they poached him from the Hammers in July 2022. Time will tell whether the club holds an option on that contract or seeks to offer him new terms before that deal expires.