Leeds United full back Cody Drameh could be set for a loan move to Championship side Luton Town after a deal was agreed between the two clubs – according to Sky Sports News’ Transfer Centre.
Currently third choice at right-back behind Luke Ayling and Rasmus Kristensen, Drameh faces the prospect of extremely limited game time this season were he to remain in Yorkshire.
As such, there has been a great amount of speculation this transfer window concerning the 21-year-old’s short, and long, term future at Leeds.
From as soon as the window opened, rumours circulated concerning Drameh’s January departure from Elland Road, with both permanent and loan options being considered.
With only six days of the window remaining, it now appears that the latter option is the most likely with Luton currently the closest to securing the young defender’s services.
Sky Sports’s update suggests that Preston were also interested, but “are now thought to be out of the running”.
Cardiff City – where Drameh shone on loan last season to the extent that he was named their player of the year – are also displaying interest. Their chances of signing him appear contingent on whether they can appoint a new manager after Mark Hudson‘s sacking, however.
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With Drameh allegedly attracting the interest of bigger teams such as Newcastle or Dortmund in the past, his decision to go back out on loan to a Championship may appear underwhelming at first.
When considered further, though, this move is perfect.
It gives Drameh the chance to excel once again at that level and get the minutes which are so crucial to developing his game considering his young age.
From Leeds’ (purely selfish) perspective, it also reduces the chance of the 21-year-old attracting the interest of other – potentially even Champions League – sides who will have the ability to tempt Drameh with a permanent move. He is much more likely to attract attention on loan at Newcastle than Luton due to the difference in media coverage between the two clubs.
As Ayling’s contract is due to expire this summer, Drameh may very well be the one to assume the mantle at right-back when he returns from loan at the same time.
This is definitely one to watch.
