Leeds United are looking at a permanent transfer for Bournemouth defender Max Aarons. According to transfer journalist Ekrem Konur, the Championship club is exploring the conditions for a deal for the right-back this week.
This interest comes three years after Aarons famously chose a move to Bournemouth over Leeds. Back in 2023, he was set for a medical at Elland Road before the Cherries, then in the Premier League, hijacked the move from Norwich City for a fee rising to £12 million. The Athletic reported the late switch at the time.
Leeds United's ownership group, 49ers Enterprises, also holds a stake in Rangers, where Aarons spent last season on loan. His 35 appearances in Scotland gave the American investors a close look at his abilities. Konur states that Leeds are actively assessing versatile full-back options, with Coventry City also showing interest in the player. The report specifies that any move would be a permanent transfer, not another loan.
Aarons has found game time limited since his arrival at the Vitality Stadium. He has made just 27 appearances for Bournemouth and also had a loan spell at Valencia. His contract situation is a key factor for any deal.
His loan spell at Ibrox yielded mixed reviews. Aarons made 35 appearances across all competitions, scoring one goal in a season that was widely criticised for the Glasgow club. Speaking last December, the defender expressed his enjoyment of the experience despite a disappointing start. "Playing for this club and playing at Ibrox are amazing experiences," Aarons said. "Since the new manager has come in it's been great, I feel really confident."
His career began with over 200 appearances for Norwich City, where he was a highly-rated prospect. The 24-year-old's future now appears to be away from the south coast, with Bournemouth likely open to a sale.
If Aarons departs, it would open up a squad space and potentially provide transfer funds. Bournemouth's defensive options would then rely more heavily on other players in that position. The club's planning for the remainder of the transfer window may be influenced by this potential outgoing. Fans can track the team's upcoming schedule on our fixtures list.
The final detail is that Aarons' next competitive match could be for a new club, as the transfer window remains open for business.
