Leeds: Radrizzani 'calm' about behind-the-scenes 'situation' at Elland Road | OneFootball

Leeds United are “calm” about the situation surrounding director of football Victor Orta, according to Sky Sports reporter Tim Thornton.

Orta is thought to be on Chelsea’s shortlist as they look to bring in a sporting director, but Thornton says Leeds are not too concerned at this moment in time.

What is the latest news involving Orta?

As per The Telegraph, Chelsea have discussed recruiting Orta ahead of the next transfer window.

Red Bull Salzburg’s Christoph Freund had looked to be the man that the west London club would hire, but he opted to stay with his current employers in the end.

As a result, Chelsea co-owner Todd Boehly has had to turn elsewhere, hence the interest in Orta. Bayer Leverkusen’s Tim Steidten, however, is also said to be under consideration.

Orta has held the position of director of football at Leeds since 2017 and was behind the managerial appointments of Jesse Marsch and Marcelo Bielsa.

What has Thornton said about Orta and Leeds?

Thornton has told GIVEMESPORT that Leeds are not panicking over Orta just yet.

Speaking about the Spaniard, the Sky Sports reporter said to GMS: “I think Victor, first of all, he’s really well thought of at Leeds. He’s quite influential at the club, he’s loved by all the staff, he’s a great character and he’s got a fantastic knowledge of players from all across Europe, from all across the world.

“When you’re somebody who’s got a good track record and you’ve done well, then you will attract interest from elsewhere. But I think Leeds are quite calm about the situation. Victor has been a big part of what Leeds have achieved over the last sort of few years.”

Has Orta been a success at Leeds?

Undoubtedly. The decision to bring Bielsa in alone means Orta’s impact at Elland Road has been a positive one, with the Argentine guiding the Whites back to the Premier League.

Marsch also looks like a good appointment after the 48-year-old steered Leeds to safety last season. This term, they currently sit just outside of the top 10 under him.

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In terms of player recruitment, Leeds have signed the likes of Raphinha, Patrick Bamford, Jack Harrison and Illan Meslier under Orta’s watch, so he has done well in that area, too.

It is not a complete shock, then, that Chelsea are considering Orta, but the above shows exactly why Leeds and Andrea Radrizzani will be looking to keep hold of him.