Yahoo News Prized Leeds United attacker would find Aston Villa transfer 'a big thing to turn down'
Stephen Warnock believes that the future of Crysencio Summerville hinges on Leeds United's promotion to the Premier League, as a summer transfer to Aston Villa 'would be a big thing to turn down'.
Daniel Farke's side face a nervy final day of the Championship campaign on Saturday as their fate remains out of their own hands. They could defeat Southampton, though still would need Ipswich Town to lose to Huddersfield Town, otherwise entry to the top-flight must be won via the play-offs.
Five failed historical attempts on this route do not bode well for the West Yorkshire outfit, and if that is to be the case then financial restrictions, added with desire from the players themselves, may see some seek deserved moves to the top-flight.
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In that bracket is Summerville who, after breaking into the Leeds squad as a 20-year-old during last year's relegation campaign, has impressed with 19 goals and nine assists in 42 second-tier appearances. This makes him only one of two in the squad to deliver more than 20 league goal contributions.
Naturally, Premier League clubs have been credited with interest. One of those is Villa, who hope to have Champions League football as a bargaining chip for potential signings come the summer.
As a past player for both clubs, Warnock discussed the Dutchman's future with Football League World this week, and whether he would be tempted by the lure of Villa Park.
"It all depends on if Leeds go back up to the Premier League," the pundit said. "If they stay in the Championship, Leeds will have to cash in on him to make sure they’re secure for however long they need to be.
"To be able to push on and to probably strengthen the squad ready for next year in the Championship. Leeds fans will hate me for saying this, but if you have got a club like Villa, a manager like Unai Emery, you’re in the Champions League positions, then that’s a big thing to turn down, it really is.
"He’s certainly a player that Leeds will want to keep hold of, but would also be an exciting addition for Aston Villa."
The winger's contract at Elland Road is valid until 2026, with various suggestions of the price it would take for Leeds to fold in negotiations. Their indefinite status as a Championship club would hand any top tier side the advantage in negotiations, though it is said Leeds would still hold out for close to £40m.
