Daniel Farke refused to be drawn into the speculation surrounding Angus Kinnear’s future as CEO of Leeds United but says it is a good sign that rival clubs are interested in their personnel.

Reports on Wednesday claimed that Kinnear is due to leave for Everton at the end of the season, but will see out the season at Elland Road in the hope of overseeing United’s promotion to the Premier League. Leeds United are declining to comment on the matter.

Kinnear remained in situ following the takeover of the 49ers Enterprises in summer 2023, having been at the club since 2017. Farke has refused to comment on the reports but says the rumours show the club is doing something right.

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“It's a professional business, it’s quite normal," he admitted. "If you’re doing well as a club, then there’s lots of interest. It's a good sign if other clubs are interested in our players or staff members.

"It belongs to this business that if you're doing well there is lots of interest and you can handle it. [But] I never comment on any rumours.

“I'm used to it [now]. When I was a younger, inexperienced manager I would have been distracted by the rumours. But it's [links] quite normal and is a good sign.

"There’s no chance to distract me and my boys from being successful and focusing on the next game. I will never speak about board members or changes or rumours or speculation.”

Meanwhile, Farke gave an insight into his long-term plans regarding loanees Manor Solomon and Joe Rothwell. Both players have been in good form in recent weeks but see their loan deals expire at the end of the season.

There have been calls for Leeds to acquire both loanees on a permanent basis but Farke indicated that these discussions might not take place until after the season has ended given it is uncertain what league United will be playing in next season.

Asked whether he wishes to keep them permanently, Farke said: “I always like to be in the driver's seat [with transfers] as a club. But if you have a loan agreement we are not, because there are more or less three parties.

“It’s not just our decision. There is a time to speak about what the future might bring but that’s not during a season and especially not during a crucial time.

“Sometimes you start a few talks behind the scenes a little bit earlier than just after the season but right now I think it is crucial for them both for where we play and also for their mother clubs, crucial for them to make a decision regarding where we will be in the next season before anything is confirmed.

"It also doesn’t make sense to progress any further talks or make a decision. So a decision will be made when it’s confirmed.”