Leeds United’s record signing has spoken about the switch from Germany to the Premier League with the Whites.
Georginio Rutter sat down with Tony Dorigo and spoke exclusively to LUTV about his switch to the West Yorkshire club after the 20-year-old signed a five-and-a-half-year deal at Leeds for a fee that is believed to be around £30m plus add-ons. He becomes Jesse Marsch’s second signing of the January transfer window and could be in line for his debut at home to Brentford next weekend.
He is ineligible for the FA Cup third-round replay against Cardiff City but will be announced to the fans before the match on Wednesday night. The new striker will wear the number 24 shirt and will provide competition for Patrick Bamford and Rodrigo in the attacking areas.
A club statement read, ‘Leeds United are delighted to announce the signing of striker Georginio Rutter for a club record transfer fee, subject to international clearance.’
‘The 20-year-old joins the Whites from German Bundesliga side TSG 1899 Hoffenheim. After successfully passing his medical, Rutter signed a long-term five-and-a-half year deal at Elland Road, with his contract running until the summer of 2028.’
Rutter, speaking about his switch to the Premier League, said, “I am very happy to be here and I’m very excited to improve my football, and for the fans and the confidence, I’m hope I’m good.”
“I have a lot of energy and technique, dribbling is my favourite on the pitch. Football is for the fans, and they are very important for the club and I want to do more, bring a lot of energy for the fans in the stadium.”
“Before I came here, he (Meslier) said it’s really a family and the fans are amazing here in Leeds, he said if I needed any help tell me and that’s it. It’s the best league here, and I’ll put my full energy into the club.”
It is now believed that the club will swiftly turn their attention to bringing in more additions as Jesse Marsch looks to build a squad capable of climbing up the Premier League table. Rumours of Bristol City’s Alex Scott and Angers Moroccon World Cup Midfielder Azzedine Ounahi have heated up over the last few days with the Whites keen on adding some quality and strength in depth.
Many fans will now be hoping that some more players come in to add some defensive stability to the side that has shipped on average two goals a game for the majority of this campaign.
Check out the new Vital Football Podcast below.