Leeds United midfielder Weston McKennie is facing a tough summer as Juventus look to offload him following his unsuccessful spell at Elland Road.
That’s according to Gazzetta dello Sport, who say he ‘must absolutely be sold’ this summer as Juventus look to balance the books.
They explain that one of the big things Juventus’ new director of football, whoever that may be, will have to deal with is players who remain on the payroll but not a part of their plans moving forwards.
Several of these players are taking up big wages that they’re not worth and McKennie is one of them, as he currently earns €2.5m a year.
Leeds have been paying that since he joined in the January transfer window, but he’s struggled to impress at Elland Road and will be returning to the club at the end of the season.
His wages, plus those of Arthur and Denis Zakaria, who are also returning from unsuccessful loan deals, add up to €15m a year and they are ‘not considered in the slightest’ for next season.
Indeed, there is an acceptance at Juventus that these players ‘must absolutely be sold’ in the summer, although saying that is always easier than doing it.
That is particularly the case for these three, who have been less than impressive on loan away from the club this season.
McKennie’s deal at Leeds does include a purchase clause but, with relegation currently looking likely, it seems that the midfielder will instead be returning to Turin, where he will be quickly shipped out.