Leeds to Refocus on Move for Ryan Kent as Daniel James Loan Move Stalls

Leeds have identified Ryan Kent as a backup transfer target amid their pursuit of Dan James
Leeds have identified Ryan Kent as a backup transfer target amid their pursuit of Dan James / Dean Mouhtaropoulos/Getty Images
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Leeds United will make another move for Rangers winger Ryan Kent should they fail to land Manchester United's Daniel James before the transfer deadline.

The Whites were on the cusp of signing James in January 2019 when he was at Swansea before a move fell through, and have made a loan offer to Manchester United in a second attempt to secure the Welshman's services. But it's unclear how likely a move for James would be as it stands, despite him falling down the pecking order at United.

Kent has impressed at Rangers
Kent has impressed at Rangers / Ian MacNicol/Getty Images

And while a move for James stalls, Kent, who was heavily linked with a move to Leeds earlier in the window, is again being explored as an option according to The Sun.

Kent joined Rangers on loan from Liverpool in 2018 and made the move permanent a year later, linking up with former Reds captain and current Rangers head coach Steven Gerrard. The winger has made a fine start to the season in Scotland, bagging five goals and five assists from 10 games in all competitions.

Leeds have also been linked with Norwich's Todd Cantwell, who stood out for Norwich in the top flight last season despite their relegation. But The Sun insist Kent will take priority.

James couldn't find his form against Palace in United's season opener
James couldn't find his form against Palace in United's season opener / Shaun Botterill/Getty Images

Though Leeds do remain interested, James is determined to stay at Old Trafford and fight for his place in the team despite the interest, according to Sky Sports, although his future is likely to hinge on whether or not a deal for Jadon Sancho is completed.

James started in United's 3-1 defeat against Crystal Palace in their first game of the season, but was substituted at half time and is yet to feature since, having failed to make the 18-man squad in their 3-2 victory away to Brighton at the weekend.