It has been revealed that Nick Hammond, the transfer consultant at Elland Road for the next two transfer windows at least, has received permission from Daniel Farke, the manager of Leeds United.
The previous season, the Whites were demoted from the Premier League following a dismal campaign in which they only managed seven victories and finished in 19th place. There were also a lot of behind-the-scenes changes at Leeds after owner Andrea Radrizzani sold up to 49ers Enterprises.
Before Radrizzani’s exit, the team had also fired veteran Victor Orta, the director of football, for having too much influence at Elland Road and losing Radrizzani’s confidence.
And after Farke emerged victorious, having just left Borussia Monchengladbach, Leeds focused on appointing Hammond to assist in managing what all Leeds supporters knew would be a demanding summer.
All told, fifteen first-team players left Elland Road, many of them abusing contract clauses that permitted them to leave on loan in the event of relegation.
Thus, those who took advantage of that arrangement and made moves away included Marc Roca, Robin Koch, Max Wober, Brenden Aaronson, Rasmus Kristensen, Diego Llorente, Jack Harrison, and Luis Sinisterra.
Tyler Adams and Rodrigo Moreno also left on permanent contracts, leaving Leeds in need of a significant rebuild.
Leeds and Farke appreciate Hammond’s transfer efforts.
But for Leeds, Hammond’s arrival could not have come at a better time. He has previously worked wonders for both Celtic and Newcastle.
Despite having to replace a significant number of players, Leeds and Hammond have made wise additions to their roster, bringing in a number of players who have already made an impression at Elland Road.
Thus far, Ethan Ampadu, Joel Piroe, Sam Bryam, Joe Rodon, and Glen Kamara have all left a lasting impression. Leeds, who enter the resumption in third place and as the division’s best team after six wins in their previous seven games, have also impressed.
There may be another astute addition ready to make his debut, as Djed Spence is still to be added after suffering an injury on his debut.
Therefore, Hammond should be commended greatly for seeing these opportunities and moving through with their signings.
Along with the astute coaching and superb man-management of Farke, it has proven to be a true team effort. Other decisions made included keeping Georginio Rutter and Crysensio Summerville on board as well as bringing Dan James back from the sidelines.
Leeds first hired Hammond as a temporary transfer consultant to help them get through the challenging summer transfer window.
But following his early triumphs at Elland Road, Phil Hay of The Athletic has disclosed that a deal has been reached to retain Hammond in charge for the next two transfer windows, at the very least.
Silently going about his business in Leeds
This implies that the 56-year-old will lead Leeds come summertime and, should Leeds decide to get ready for a Premier League comeback, he will assist Leeds in their January efforts to bolster their squad.
Very little is seen of Hammond after the highly publicized antics of his predecessor Orta. He quietly and effectively completes the work at hand and prefers to stay out of the spotlight, leaving that to Farke. And that’s precisely how a football director, technical advisor, sporting director, transfer consultant, or whatever title you want to give it, should be!
It is evident that Hammond has gained Farke’s trust, and it is believed that discussions between Farke, Chairman Paraag Marathe, and Chief Executive Angus Kinnear led to the decision to give Hammond a longer term in the position.
But Farke had the final say, and it’s evident that Hammond has gained the German’s confidence and respect quite rapidly.
With Hammond, who obviously has a very keen eye for a transfer, Leeds can now plan ahead rather than relying on him as a temporary advisor.
