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Premier League clubs want Sam Byram, says Leeds boss Steve Evans

Sam Byram has been on a hot scoring streak for Leeds
Image: Sam Byram has been on a hot scoring streak for Leeds

Sam Byram's future at Leeds remains in doubt, with head coach Steve Evans revealing several Premier League clubs want the midfielder.

The 22-year-old has been in sparkling form and was named the PFA Fans' Player of the Month for December in the Championship as his club remained unbeaten in their six matches, winning three and drawing three.

However, it would seem the rising English star may be on the move before long and Evans told Sky Sports Now: "I can't say whether he will stay or not.

"He's made it clear he doesn't want to extend his contract beyond the summer and there are four or five Premier League clubs who would like to get Sam. They are all good clubs.  

"But it has to be right first and foremost for Leeds and that young man. He's got all the right attributes to play in the Premier League but it has to be right for all parties."

One player who may be arriving at Elland Road is Norwich striker Kyle Lafferty.

On the way to Leeds?
On the way to Leeds?

Norwich striker Kyle Lafferty plays down talk of Leeds move

Lafferty insisted on Monday no deal was in place and Evans revealed on Wednesday that talks remained ongoing between the two clubs.

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"We've had a few chats with Norwich and we'll have to wait for that process to sort out," said the former Rotherham boss.

"It's frustrating because you'd like to sign these players. Lafferty's made no secret of wanting to be at Leeds but I am respectful to Norwich boss Alex Neil and David McNally [chief executive].

"We are trying hard to make it happen. But we are  trying to sign two or three players. These players we are trying to bring in are good players and the owner is putting his hand in his pocket." 

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Sky sources have also revealed that Bournemouth are keen on Leeds defender Lewis Cook with a fee possibly reaching £8m if a deal is reached for the 18-year-old.

Evans added: "It doesn't surprise me that [manager] Eddie Howe is interested in Lewis. He's got absolutely everything.

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Leeds United manager Steve Evans responds to speculation surrounding midfielder Lewis Cook with a move to Bournemouth

"He is man of the match in many of our Championship games and his consistency is very high. He's a smashing kid off the pitch.

"From a Leeds point of view, we want to keep him and as a coach I want to keep him because he's so influential. When it gets to the realms of the money we're talking about, only the president can decide. But unless it's completely right for Leeds he won't be going anywhere."

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Byram scored for Leeds in their 1-1 draw at Nottingham Forest last month

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