Rangers have reportedly seen a bid rejected by Championship outfit Leeds United for defensive talent Charlie Cresswell.
If there was one positive that could be taken out of Leeds United’s relegation from the Premier League on the final day of last term, it’s that Elland Road remains home to an exciting crop of fresh-faced talent ready and waiting to attack the second-tier head on.
Wilfried Gnonto, Crysencio Summerville, Joe Gelhardt, Cody Drameh, Sam Greenwood and co – should they all stick around – could benefit immensely from a season of first-team football in the division below.
And, in Charlie Cresswell, Leeds also have a colossus of a centre-half who has already proven himself capable of thriving at Championship level.
Rangers make Charlie Cresswell bid
The Preston-born 20-year-old was a regular on loan at a Millwall side who only narrowly missed out on the play-offs in 2022/23. He was even the club’s third-highest goalscorer, netting four times from centre-half; Cresswell’s giant 6ft 3ins frame making him a major asset in both boxes.
And, with doubts swirling around Robin Koch, Diego Llorente and co, it comes as no surprise that Leeds have rejected an ‘undisclosed offer’ from Rangers for the England U21 international.
That is according to Football League World. Scottish Premiership runners-up last term, Rangers appear keen to add more defensive depth to their ranks, even if a left-sided centre-half would arguably be of greater use to Mick Beale following the departure of Filip Helander.
The Gers boss already has Conor Goldson, John Souttar and Leon King for the right-sided role. Dujon Sterling, the summer signing from Chelsea, can also fill in in the centre. Even if he remains more comfortable at full-back.
Leeds are under no pressure to sell Cresswell. The academy graduate, who captained the Whites at U23 level, is under contract until 2025.
“It’s not a surprise (other clubs want to sign him). He’s been really, really good,” Millwall boss Rowett said before Christmas.
“For a first loan, to come into a difficult division, he’s done really, really well. I’m not surprised (Norwich want him). He’s a really good player and one with a lot of potential.”
Cresswell’s agent, in conversation with The Athletic, refused to rule out a move away from Elland Road recently, indicating that Leeds were willing sellers as recently as January.
