Leeds United’s Decision to Sell Leif Davis Proves Costly as Former Star Excels in Championship
Leeds United’s start to the 2024/25 Championship season has been solid, with two wins and two draws in their opening four matches. However, the team’s summer transfer window was marked by significant upheaval, with key players like Glen Kamara, Crysencio Summerville, Georginio Rutter, and Archie Gray departing the club.
One player who has gone on to excel in the Championship is Leif Davis, a left-back who was once on Leeds’ books. Davis was signed by the Whites in 2018 and showed promise in his early appearances for the first team. However, he struggled to break into the starting lineup and was eventually sold to Ipswich Town in 2022.
That decision has proven costly for Leeds, as Davis has gone on to establish himself as one of the top left-backs in the Championship. Last season, he provided more assists than Georginio Rutter, who was a key creative force for Leeds during the 2023/24 campaign.
Davis’s form for Ipswich has been impressive, with the 22-year-old providing 15 assists in 43 League One appearances during the 2022/23 season. He also scored three goals and helped the Tractor Boys earn promotion to the Championship.
In the Championship last season, Davis continued to excel, providing more assists than Rutter and helping Ipswich finish second in the league. His performances have earned him a reputation as one of the most exciting young full-backs in the country.
Leeds United’s decision to sell Davis for a reported fee of at least £1m now looks like a mistake. The club’s manager at the time, Jesse Marsch, deemed Davis surplus to requirements, but the player’s subsequent form has proven that decision wrong.
As Leeds looks to bounce back from their disappointing start to the season, they could do worse than look at the example set by Davis. The former Whites player has shown that with hard work and determination, it is possible to excel in the Championship and beyond.
Moreover, Davis’s success serves as a reminder of the importance of nurturing young talent and providing opportunities for players to develop. Leeds United’s academy has produced several talented players in recent years, and the club must ensure that they are giving these players the chance to shine.
In contrast, Ipswich Town’s decision to sign Davis has proven to be a shrewd move. The Tractor Boys have reaped the rewards of Davis’s creativity and attacking prowess, and his presence has been a key factor in their success.
As the season progresses, Leeds United will be hoping to close the gap on their promotion rivals. However, they will also be keeping a watchful eye on Leif Davis, the player who got away.