Leeds United’s deal to bring Kyle Bartley back to Elland Road has gone cold following the appointment of Marcelo Bielsa.

The Yorkshire Evening Post’s Phil Hay has provided an update on Leeds’ quest to sign Bartley, confirming that a deal has gone cold recently, with the reliable journalist unsure if Bielsa wants to bring the centre-back on board.

Hay did admit that a deal could still be struck later in the transfer window for Bartley, however, with resolving the defender’s future likely to take time.

It emerged earlier in the summer that Leeds were keen to bring Bartley back to Elland Road after a disappointing 2017/18 campaign saw them finish just 13th in the Championship.

The Swansea City centre-back spent a year on-loan with Leeds under Garry Monk, impressing, as Leeds challenged for the play-offs during the 2016/17 season.

Bartley made 50 appearances across all competitions for Leeds that year, scoring six goals, as Leeds finished seventh in the Championship table.

Leeds never attempted to lure Bartley back permanently last summer, with the 27-year-old remaining with Swansea in the Premier League.

Bartley managed just 12 appearances for the Swans last season during a hugely disappointing campaign.

The Verdict  

This is disappointing for Leeds’ supporters, who would have wanted to see Bartley back on board next season.

Of course, that could still happen, but it is looking more and more likely that Bielsa will explore the option of bringing others on board first.

Despite this latest update, it is certainly worth keeping an eye on Leeds’ interest in Bartley, as the Whites could still make their move if Bielsa’s squad looks short at the back.

Leeds fans… Let us know your thoughts!