Gradel has played just one game for Leicester this season

Leeds United have confirmed they are trying to sign Leicester City's Max Gradel on a permanent basis.

The Ivorian winger, 22, has been on loan at the League One leaders for three months but his deal expires after Saturday's trip to Exeter City.

Boss Simon Grayson told BBC Radio Leeds: "We are talking to Leicester and will have to see what happens.

"If he does stay it would be either permanently or on loan till the end of season, but that's up to Leicester."

Gradel, 21, has scored three goals in 15 appearances for Leeds since moving to Elland Road on an original one-month deal in October.

He said: "The weekend is his last game and that will be it for Max on the 93-day emergency loan deal. We will just have to see what happens and we are chatting with Leicester about it. We will ask the question and see what the answer is.

He is probably the only player I've signed that after seeing him for just 10 minutes everyone wants me to sign him up full time Simon Grayson

"If he has to go back we will thank him for what he's done because he is a joy to work with. You never know what's round the corner.

"He is a good lad, enthusiastic and always has a smile on his face. He's a good football and has brought a lot to this club. When he's started games he's scored goals and set them up and when he comes off the bench he is always lively.

"The crowd have taken to him from day one and he is probably the only player I've signed that after seeing him for just 10 minutes everyone wants me to sign him up full time.

"That's just Max for you. Whatever happens with him hopefully he'll have a very successful career."

E-mail this to a friend

Printable version