That’s it, or so it appears. Leeds United and Pontus Jansson are to part their ways. In divorce terms there will be cited irreconcilable differences.
It was mooted by many, whispered by some but in the end the breakdown between club and player isn’t that much of a surprise. He’s been absent from the club for a while, hasn’t featured in the first week back of pre-season and the rumour level has been ramped up to max.
Supporters had pondered on his absence from pre-season and some had put forward excuses mainly in the hope that it could all be explained away. It couldn’t be. It seems that whatever goodwill had existed between player and club was gone, destroyed in a way. This was all too apparent in the following tweet from former Yorkshire Evening Post journalist Phil Hay:
as best I can tell, the relationship between Jansson and the club has broken down. There are things Leeds aren’t happy about in terms of attitude etc and I’d expect a parting of ways very soon.
— Phil Hay (@PhilHay_) July 6, 2019
Hay’s words were like a punch to the chest of many Leeds United fans who’ve grown to love his robust attitude and that sense of calmness and coolness that he brought to the Whites backline. The worrying part about it is that the club aren’t, apparently, happy with his attitude – that one word can cover a whole host of varying connotations.
An offer has been made for Jansson, and it is a low-ball offer indeed that doesn’t really reflect his worth bearing in mind his age and international status. As Hay furhter seems to confirm (below) it is “£5.5m” and it has been lodged “from another English club.”
Leeds have issues with Jansson’s attitude and feel it’s the right decision to move him on from the dressing room. Bielsa is on board with the sale.
— Phil Hay (@PhilHay_) July 6, 2019
As stark as day it sits; Leeds United want rid due to his attitude and the influence the club feel it is having on the dressing room. Thoughts of one bad apple and spoiling of a bunch spring to mind; it seems that what the Whites are doing is something drastic yet, at the same time, preventative.
Whatever it is that they are doing, you could have bet your last bits of pocket change that Leeds United fans would comment. Here’s what some of them have said about the fact that Jansson is being moved on.
Leeds United fans comment on developing Jansson situation
https://twitter.com/cerileedsfan/status/1147509696405921792
Be surprising to see what Pontus comes out and says after his supposed move is completed, with everyone’s comments it looks like he’s being pushed out of the door, bad move in my opinion @LUFC
— Liam Pitts (@liamp7) July 6, 2019
Regards Pontus Jansson & Bielsa: nobody is bigger than the @lufc
Pontus is very passionate player but if in the opinion of Bielsa, his actions are detrimental to other players then selling him could be the best option.— Andy Leatham 💛🤍💙 (@leedswhiterose) July 6, 2019
In terms of on the pitch, Jansson will be a big miss. His passion, relationship with the fans and no nonsense defending has been superb. Shame to hear of the issues behind the scenes. We just have to make sure we bring in a solid replacement for him. #lufc
— Alex Oldham (@alexanderoldham) July 6, 2019
Was the stripping off sanctioned by MB? Has Pontus given Bielsa a piece of his mind in the dressing room? Add this to the drama after the villa goal and you’ve got a major issue. #thinkingoutloud #lufc #pontus
— Martyn💙💛🏆🍻 (@badmart76) July 6, 2019
This should be served as a message to anyone who plays under Bielsa. It’s his way or the highway. Not following his instructions against Villa was essentially the end for him at #lufc
— Seg (@SimonWillmoth) July 6, 2019
He is Leeds! I know players come and go, but it’s different with him… #lufc pic.twitter.com/LfoM0xnced
— LeedsAreGoingUp💙💛 (@leedsgoinguppp) July 6, 2019
seriously, how do u replace possibly the best defender in the league with £5.5m?… have they seriously thought this through? #LUFC
— David J. Lowe (@SonicAngel2010) July 6, 2019
Surely can’t let this man go, what he has done for us and to see him go for 5.5 million is a joke, really hope the big man stays #LUFC @PJansson5 💙💛 pic.twitter.com/UxOvl5CakX
— callum (@callumlufc10) July 6, 2019
It’s only at the rumour stage at the moment. When it reaches the confirmed stage, then expect far more colourful outpourings than are happening at present.