Graham Smyth reports £4m-rated Leeds gem has a release clause, deal ends soon

Graham Smyth has claimed in a Q&A on the Yorkshire Evening Post website that Leeds United defender Charlie Cresswell has a release clause in his contract – with the centre-back returning to Elland Road after a loan at Millwall.

Cresswell, 20, starred for Millwall last season. Joining Gary Rowett’s side on loan after seven first-team outings for Leeds, he clocked up 30 games. It would have been more if he had not suffered a fractured eye socket in April.

And, of course, if Millwall had sneaked into the play-offs – if fit. Now, he returns to Leeds with 12 months left on his Elland Road deal. Leeds Live claim that Cresswell is back in the club’s senior plans ahead of the 2023-24 season.

That is despite a report from The Sun in January, claiming Michael Carrick’s Middlesbrough were keen on £4m-rated Cresswell. It was apparent that Leeds were ready to sell. Smyth says there is a release clause in his deal.

“I certainly expect so [Cresswell to stay]. There’s a release clause. Maybe a new contract would help. He’s going to the U21 Euros. If he didn’t already have admirers (he does) then he could make himself even hotter property.

“A player who has tasted the Championship and overcome a few rocky patches to flourish in a team trying to get to the right end of the table. Why wouldn’t you do everything to keep him? He could play, lots, next season.”

Smyth: Leeds defender Cresswell has release clause in his contract

As Smyth says, Leeds have got to tie Cresswell down to a new deal. Even without a release clause, only having a year left on his deal means getting him to sign a contract is important. Now, with a clause, it is absolutely crucial.

Cresswell has all the hallmarks of becoming a future captain of this club. Liam Cooper is probably edging towards the end of his time at Leeds, also out of contract in 2024. Leeds need to hand him a new deal and remove a clause.