Midfielder Rothwell was signed by Leeds United on Thursday night; he will join the team on loan for the 2024–2025 season.
The time between the signing announcement and the emergence of the rumours was brief. The 29-year-old, who brings a tonne of energy and Championship experience to Elland Road, is a welcome addition to Daniel Farke’s midfield.
Rothwell is listed in the Whites’ release as being on loan for the season; a buy option was not included.
But when Rothwell’s loan expires, Leeds United will have the option to sign him permanently, as reported by Adam Pope of BBC Sport.
Pope confirms that there is a chance to purchase the Bournemouth player in the summer.
The Rothwell-Cherries contract expires in the summer of 2026.
An ongoing addition
Rothwell may stay at Elland Road for some time even if he is only here temporarily because he has the option to make his temporary move permanent this time next year.
The onus will be on the former Blackburn Rovers and Manchester United player to shine with Leeds United. Many will support him in doing so as well.
He is a modern, forward-thinking midfielder who excels at carrying the ball deep. Being able to play both his typical deeper role and as an attacking midfielder is made possible by Rothwell’s confidence in taking on his opponent.
If he can secure a spot in Farke’s starting lineup, it will be interesting to watch because there will undoubtedly be fierce competition for a spot.
Present possibilities for midfield
Leeds United needs players this summer, and they need them in the middle of the park. Archie Grey, who Farke primarily deployed at right-back, was sold to Spurs, and there are also rumours over Glen Kamara’s future.
Borussia Dortmund has also expressed interest in Ilia Gruev, but additions have been required even in the absence of any additional departures.
More new faces would be needed to work alongside Rothwell if there were more exits. But for the time being, Rothwell will have competition from Kamara, Gruev, and Ethan Ampadu for a starting position.
Farke appears to have a potent midfield group between those four. Though more depth would still be beneficial, Leeds United should anticipate turning their attention to another recruit at some stage this summer.
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