Jack Harrison’s chances of having his loan spell at Everton terminated to return to Leeds United in the January transfer window have emerged, via an update from the Yorkshire Evening Post.
The winger spent the whole of last season on loan with the Toffees, and returned to Goodison Park for another season-long loan spell in the summer transfer window.
However, he has largely struggled with Sean Dyche’s side, scoring just four goals in 54 appearances for the club, and some fans have previously called for his loan to be teminated.
There was even an expectation among some that would happen after Everton were linked with Aston Villa winger Jaden Philogene.
This latest update has revealed that Leeds are happy for Harrison to remain on Merseyside, and do not have the option to recall him irrespective of that, with chances of an early return considered “slim to none”.
Both clubs would therefore have to agree on a loan termination, but there is also apparently no interest from Sean Dyche’s side in doing that.
Harrison is also noted to have made it clear he does not want to play for Leeds in the Championship by exercising the clause in his contract allowing him to leave on loan in the last two summers.
Jack Harrison situation will be frustrating for some at Everton
Football Insider Opinion
While they may be happy not to send Harrison back to Leeds as things stand this could still create something of an issue for the Toffees.
Right now Everton sit 16th in the Premier League just one point clear of the bottom three meaning they are very much in a relegation battle.
Harrison though has previously suffered relegation with Leeds at this level, and his record at Goodison Park is far from inspiring either.
There may therefore be some who question just how much of a contribution he will be able to make for the club as they fight to stay up this season.
By keeping him on, Everton are also taking up space in their squad and wage budget that could otherwise be used for a January signing who might be able to help in their relegation battle.
With that in mind, the fact Harrison looks as though he will be remaining at Goodison Park until the end of the season could develop into a risky situation for the club.
