"This will influence" - Pundit reacts as Luton Town and West Brom join Sheffield Wednesday in Ian Poveda race | OneFootball

The former Manchester City youth prospect has spent a large proportion of his career so far at Championship level, but has lacked consistency and continuity throughout.

Now at 24, the Colombian winger has a pivotal decision to make after it was confirmed that he will depart from Leeds United at the end of his contract, which was initially penned under the management of 'El Loco', Marcelo Bielsa, in the winter of 2020.

Having impressed during a short loan spell at Sheffield Wednesday, perhaps it shouldn't come as a surprise that clubs higher up the second tier are looking to acquire Poveda's signature on a free transfer.

Carlton Palmer issues potential Ian Poveda transfer verdict

Former Owls star Carlton Palmer has become familiar with Poveda's performances in recent months, and believes that his resurgence under Danny Rohl could be a big influence amid interest from elsewhere, when speaking exclusively to Football League World

"Ian Poveda, the winger from Leeds United will see his contract expire," Palmer began. "West Brom and Luton Town, along with Sheffield Wednesday have joined the race for his signature."

"He was very instrumental in the second half of the season on loan at Sheffield Wednesday, where he quickly became a fans' favourite with his performances. He played very, very well at Sheffield Wednesday, and they are keen to get his signature," the pundit continued.

"Danny Rohl was a key factor in getting the best out of Ian, and surely this will influence who Poveda eventually signs for," Palmer claimed.

"He seemed to have a fantastic rapport with the squad and Danny Rohl, whilst the supporters took him to heart."

Luton Town, West Brom situations could turn Ian Poveda's head

Unlike Wednesday, Luton and West Bromwich Albion are two sides who many will expect to be among the promotion front-runners next season, and have both shown an interest in Poveda alongside Cardiff City, as per the Mirror's Darren Witcoop.

However, Palmer believes that Poveda could still prefer a move back to Hillsborough, despite the potential upturn in salary which could be offered by the Hatters and the Baggies.

"Luton Town and West Brom are going to be in the running at the top end of the table," he continued. "But, he wouldn't have too far to move - if at all - from Leeds to Sheffield Wednesday."

"I suppose once he sits down with Danny Rohl and finds out what the situation will be for next season - are Sheffield Wednesday going to compete at the top end of the table?, which I believe they will if Danny's allowed to recruit the players he'd like to bring to the football club - it would be a fantastic signing for Sheffield Wednesday," Palmer stated.

He concluded: "But, West Brom and Luton are going to be up there (challenging for promotion), so obviously it will be a factor in terms of his salary. But, in terms of where he's enjoyed his football and had a resurgence, it was at Sheffield Wednesday and that must be a key factor in where he puts pen to paper."

Sheffield Wednesday and Ian Poveda need stability

Whilst a move to Luton or West Brom would present Poveda with the chance of earning another promotion from the second tier on his CV, the most important scenario for his career is one of stability and continuity.

It's clear that this is what Danny Rohl is targeting at Hillsborough, which then makes a potential move perfect sense for all parties involved.

Poveda would then need no time to aclimatise to a philosophy which brought the best out of him, despite only registering one goal contribution throughout his time in S6.

However, as Palmer referenced, the salaries which Luton and West Brom could offer may be a stumbling block in those aims for the German.

Therefore, he and the Wednesday faithful will be hoping some of his key decision will be made with his heart, and not just his head.