Set piece maestro linked with Leeds United turns down contract offer, set to move
- George Dempsey
- 19 June 2023
Philadelphia Union left-back Kai Wagner has turned down multiple contract offers and will depart MLS, according to reports.
Kai Wagner, 26, has been heavily linked with a move to England in the past 12 months and fresh reports suggest he's set for an MLS exit.
The German left-back is being monitored by several clubs across Europe and was a winter transfer window target for Leeds United.
The Athletic reporter Phil Hay confirmed that the Yorkshire club were actively monitoring the lethal set-piece taker and had considered a move.
He's currently in the final year of his contract with the Union and has so far rejected several offers to extend his stay.
He's managed by Wasserman, the same agency responsible for Brendan Aaronson, Luis Sinisterra and Crysencio Summerville, among others.
Philadelphia have begun looking for options to replace Wagner, who they knew had intentions of returning to European football one day.
He rose through the ranks in Germany and featured 105 times in the lower leagues before moving to MLS for $100,000.
He has recorded 24 assists for Philadelphia and is widely accepted as one of the most talented full-back in the league.
The German's reading of the game has allowed him to play in four positions already this season with his engine, one on one defending and ability on the ball standing out.
He's a naturally left-footed set-piece taker who has made more key passes than any other defender in the league this season, creating 29 goalscoring opportunities in 14 matches.
For reference, World Cup-winning midfielder Thiago Almada averages 3.1 key passes per match, with Mateusz Klich averaging 2.2. Wagner is currently averaging 2.1.
His wages were increased by $120,000 for the 2023 season but he still only earns around $13,000 per week in Philadelphia.
He's now free to make a pre-contract agreement ahead of a winter move but could move this summer for a small fee.
Junior Firpo's nightmare stay at Elland Road could come to an end soon and signing a natural left-back will be high on the fan's wishlist.
It remains to be seen if Leeds retain an interest in Wagner, but it seems certain he'll land somewhere in England or Germany this year.
