Rochdale Close In On Deal For Premier League Winger

Jimmy McNulty’s side currently sit in the play-off places after their opening five matches in the National League, keeping three clean sheets in the process thus far.

Despite their strong start to the campaign, Rochdale have only averaged one goal per match so far which could explain the reasoning behind the club targeting a move for another attacking option.

However, it appears as though the football club are closing in on their latest summer signing, this time an arrival from the Premier League.

Ayinde to Rochdale?

As reported by journalist Pete O’Rourke, Rochdale have agreed a loan deal with Premier League side Ipswich Town for winger Leon Ayinde.

The 19-year-old has been a regular feature for Ipswich Town at youth level since his arrival from Cork City in February 2023 but is yet to make his first-team debut for the Tractor Boys and is likely to be targeting more regular first-team minutes at Spotland.

The deal is reportedly close to being confirmed, with the winger likely becoming Rochdale’s 12th summer signing.

How did he fare last season?

Ayinde made the match-day squad once for the Tractor Boys during the 2023/24 campaign during an EFL Cup victory against Bristol Rovers.

However, he did make six appearances for Ipswich Town’s U21s last season, scoring during a 4-2 victory against Crystal Palace’s U21s in league competition.

Is this a good move for Rochdale?

Jimmy McNulty’s side have had a strong start to the 2024/25 National League season so far, but have a slight issue when it comes to scoring goals as they’ve averaged just one goal per match.

Although Ayinde has only made one first-team appearance in his entire career, the 19-year-old adds an increased attacking presence to the Rochdale side, competing against the likes of Courtney Senior, Tarryn Allarakhia and Ody Alfa.