Leeds United blocked Plymouth Argyle’s attempts to sign Darko Gyabi on a permanent transfer before agreeing to a second loan move this summer, according to Plymouth’s director of football, Neil Dewsnip. The 20-year-old central midfielder, who has five senior appearances for Leeds, including one in the Premier League, played 10 games on loan at Plymouth in the second half of last season. His loan spell was cut short by a groin injury.
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Despite the injury, Gyabi’s performances impressed Plymouth enough to seek his return for the 2024/25 campaign. Dewsnip revealed that Plymouth initially aimed for a permanent transfer but were rebuffed by Leeds. “Darko wasn’t on the market to be bought. Leeds didn’t encourage that discussion. We did have a little nibble at that but it wasn’t really on their agenda,” Dewsnip explained to Plymouth Live. Instead, Plymouth secured Gyabi’s return on loan, which Dewsnip considers a significant achievement given his impact last season.
Dewsnip expressed excitement about Gyabi’s return, highlighting the midfielder’s substantial contribution before his injury. “To get him back is great, I’m really looking forward to seeing him play,” Dewsnip added. The decision to retain Gyabi suggests that Leeds sees potential in the young midfielder and may have long-term plans for his development.