Leicester City mull over Leeds deal for Max Gradel

Leicester City have received an official approach from Leeds United to extend Max Gradel's loan stay at Elland Road.

City are still considering the approach, as well as a request from Leeds to allow the 20-year-old winger to play in the FA Cup at Oldham on Saturday.

It has been reported that City have already blocked the request, but a City spokesman said no agreement has been reached.

Leeds manager Simon Grayson has Gradel – who has already made a considerable impression at the League One leaders – on loan until November 14, but he wants to extend that to January.

The Ivory Coast winger, who is under contract at City until 2012, contributed to last season's League One title success, including a wonder free-kick at MK Dons.

But he has failed to break into the Championships side this season and has been resigned to a place on the bench. However, he has become an instant favourite at Elland Road, making an exciting impact as a second-half substitute in Leeds' last four games.

He was allowed a longer run against Yeovil on Saturday and responded with his first goal for the club, just 11 minutes after coming on in the 4-0 win.

His performances may tempt Grayson to make a move to sign him on a permanent basis during the January transfer window.

Grayson, a former City skipper, said: "He's got a certain something about him, that va va voom which can turn games.

"Give him the ball and he can run at people and create chances. He's an exciting player who can be anything he wants.

"Max gives us an extra dimension to our game, something that we have not had before.

"He's certainly contributed when he's come on in the games so far."

Gradel was recommended to Leeds by former City defender Patrick Kisnorbo, who joined the Yorkshire club when he was not offered a new contract at the Walkers Stadium.

Kisnorbo, who has just been recalled to the Australia squad, said: "I knew Max from my Leicester days and I knew he was available, so I put his name forward to the coaching staff.

"Luckily for us, they went to get him and he's been fantastic. He's made such an impact and changed the game every time he has come on. He's also scored a goal which is great for him and, hopefully, we can keep him here."

West Brom midfielder Albion Youssouf Mulumbu is back in the frame for Saturday's trip to Leicester after returning to training.

The Baggies midfielder has recovered from a knee injury, giving manager Roberto Di Matteo a clean bill of health with the exception of long-term injury victims Neil Clement, James Morrison and Ishmael Miller.