In an official statement, Leeds United have confirmed the sale of Leif Davis to AFC Bournemouth. The youngster joins the Championship outfit on a season-long loan deal, but the Cherries have the option to make the deal permanent at the end of next season. The defender’s current contract at Elland Road expires in 2023, but it appears unlikely that he will return to Yorkshire.
Leif Davis’ Spell At Leeds United
A product of the Morecambe youth academy, Leif Davis joined Leeds United in the summer of 2018. He has since become an ever-present figure in the club’s U23 setup, particularly making a solid impression alongside teammate Charlie Cresswell.
Davis notably made 12 appearances in Premier League 2 last season, playing a critical role in Leeds U23’s success in the Elite Development League. His impactful performances in the youth divisions had earned him a significant number of first-team opportunities as well.
In fact, the youngster featured in a total of 14 competitive matches for Leeds United. And although a majority of them were not starts, it is perhaps fair to point out that Davis wasn’t exactly impressive.
The 21-year-old was notably involved in the disappointing defeats to QPR and Crawley Town in the Carabao Cup as well as last season’s FA Cup tie against Hull City. Such performances might have played a key role in facilitating his departure from Elland Road this summer.
A Sensible Deal For All Parties Involved
As mentioned earlier, Leif Davis hasn’t set the world alight with his performances for Leeds United’s senior side. As such, his move to Bournemouth, even if made permanent, is perhaps a good deal for all parties involved.
Bournemouth, vying for promotion to the Premier League next season, will find themselves a talented defender who is more than ready to step in whenever needed. He can indeed serve as an ideal alternative for the defensive trifecta of Lloyd Kelly, Chris Mepham and Steve Cook.
Davis himself will be delighted to make the move to Bournemouth. The Cherries will give him an ideal platform to showcase his talents in professional football and potentially catch the eye of Premier League clubs next season.
And finally, for Leeds United, Davis’ departure should open up a potential first-team route to many of the club’s reserve team players including his former teammate Cresswell. It might also persuade the Whites to add some much-needed reinforcements in the defensive unit for the U23 side.
They have already made a lot of moves this summer, notably roping in the likes of Lewis Bate, Sean McGurk and Amari Miller.
