**Leeds United May Lose Jonathan Rowe to Marseille Amid New Loan Offer, While They Pursue a Winger Following Summerville’s Exit**
Leeds United’s hopes of signing Norwich City’s Jonathan Rowe have taken a hit, with transfer expert Fabrizio Romano reporting that French club Olympique Marseille has made a fresh loan bid for the winger. Following Crysencio Summerville’s £25 million move to West Ham United, Leeds has been searching for a replacement wide player.
So far, Leeds has secured loans for Joe Rodon, Jayden Bogle, Alex Cairns, and Joe Rothwell, but they have yet to fill the gap left by Summerville.
**Leeds Dealt a Setback in Rowe Pursuit**
Winger ‘eager’ for a Marseille move this summer
After Summerville’s departure, Norwich’s Rowe quickly became Leeds’ top target before the transfer window closed. The 21-year-old, who scored 13 goals and provided four assists in the 2023/24 season, has been with Norwich since graduating from their academy in 2022 and has made 56 senior appearances in all competitions.
According to transfer insider Romano, Marseille has made a new proposal—a loan with an obligation to buy—with Rowe pushing for the move to France. Although no deal has been finalized yet, the two clubs are still in negotiations.
This news comes shortly after reports from TEAMtalk indicated that Leeds was preparing to make their own offer for the London-born player. Additionally, journalist Darren Witcoop revealed that Wolverhampton Wanderers, under Gary O’Neil, were also vying for Rowe’s signature.
Rowe, who has less than 12 months left on his current contract at Carrow Road, could force Norwich’s hand, as they may risk losing him on a free transfer in 2025.
**Georginio Rutter Moves Closer to Brighton Transfer**
Seagulls activate striker’s release clause
In addition to Summerville, Leeds is also on the verge of losing forward Georginio Rutter, as Brighton & Hove Albion is nearing a deal to sign him. Despite efforts from Leeds to keep him at Elland Road, Brighton has triggered Rutter’s £40 million release clause, according to The Athletic’s David Ornstein.
Sky Sports Germany’s Florian Plettenberg reports that Rutter, who scored eight goals and provided 16 assists last season, has agreed to join Brighton. The funds Leeds receive from Rutter’s transfer could enhance their ability to negotiate for Rowe, allowing them to return to the table with a stronger financial offer.
