Tom Pearce’s expected move away from Elland Road has taken a late twist, as Portsmouth and Sunderland are weighing up bids for the out-of-favour Leeds defender, according to Football League World.
Barnsley remain in pole position to sign the Whites product, having reportedly agreed to meet United’s £275,000 valuation of the 21-year-old, but are still far from reaching a definitive agreement and finalising his transfer.
With Deadline Day now underway for Premier League and Championship sides, the Tykes face a race against time to get their deal over the line, as League One duo Portsmouth and Sunderland have until Monday, September 2 at 17:00 to conclude their business.
Barnsley were said to have tabled a contract to Pearce that would see him earn a similar wage to his current salary, as Tykes boss Daniel Stendel sees the left-back as someone who can deputise for Daniel Pinillos alongside 20-year-old Ben Williams.
If either Pompey or the Black Cats can convince Pearce that regular first-team football would be on offer at Fratton Park or the Stadium of Light, then Barnsley may be left scratching their heads over who can arrive at Oakwell to fill the void Stendel sees in his squad.
Pearce spent the latter half of last season on loan in League One after often being left out of Marcelo Bielsa’s plans, and now being transfer listed may see the 21-year-old defender reflect on his nine third-tier appearances with Scunthorpe as he looks to make a decision over what direction his career is taking.