Leeds United forward Joe Gelhardt continues to have a frustration season after links with a move to Preston North End.
North End were quiet in the January transfer window and chose not to bring in new faces.
We didn’t really have a problem with that; PNE enjoyed a strong summer window and saving cash for this coming summer seemed like a sensible move.
There were rumours surrounding potential signings though and one of them was Leeds United’s Joe Gelhardt.
Reports from The Sun’s Alan Nixon back in December suggested that PNE were rivalling Blackburn Rovers in the race for Gelhardt.
Hull City were mentioned too but Gelhardt stayed at Leeds – and, sadly, his frustrating campaign has continued.
Joe Gelhardt enduring tough season
Gelhardt has managed just 173 minutes of Championship all season, across two starts and six substitute appearances.
The 21-year-old has remarkably played just four times since the 17th of September, struggling for first-team action at Elland Road.
Gelhardt’s last four appearances have amounted to just 27 minutes, all off the bench.
As if that wasn’t frustrating enough, Gelhardt recently had back spasms and subsequently missed the FA Cup clash with Chelsea.
Even when Gelhardt comes back, it’s difficult to imagine him suddenly forcing his way into Daniel Farke’s side.
The reality has become clear and Gelhardt simply has to leave Leeds this summer, either permanently or on loan.
A Liverpool-born talent, we would imagine that Ryan Lowe is well aware of Gelhardt and his ability.
The former Wigan Athletic prospect has been hailed as ‘special’ by Jamie Carragher, one of Lowe’s close friends.
Gelhardt offers a versatile attacking options, capable of playing up front or out wide, especially on the right flank, where he can cut in on his left foot.
We wouldn’t be surprised to see North End target Gelhardt again this summer, and Lowe will surely be keeping tabs on his situation at Leeds if that January interest was legitimate.