Swedish media reported that Mikkle Ladefoged, the 6ft 8in striker, reportedly a target for Lincoln City, would be left out by Västerås last night, but that wasn’t the case.
The 23-year-old was picked for their game against Djurgården, but it didn’t go according to plan, as the rivals for an Allsvenskan European spot played out a 6-0 scoreline in favour of Djurgården.
Reports in Sweden have claimed the Imps are in advanced negotiations to sign the Dane, with a potential deal worth around 50 million Swedish kronor. That would equate to approximately £4 million and make Ladefoged the biggest sale in Västerås’ history.
However, Västerås sporting director Billy Magnusson has played down suggestions that Ladefoged’s move to Sincil Bank is already agreed, although he has confirmed there is interest in the striker.
He started Monday evening’s 6-0 defeat but was withdrawn at half-time after experiencing discomfort in his knee. His substitution inevitably led to suggestions that he may have been protected ahead of a move, but Västerås manager Alexander Rubin insisted the decision was injury-related.
“It’s not something I know anything about. In that case, Billy will have to tell you. He had problems with a knee, which we chose to protect.”
Ladefoged later confirmed to Swedish television that he had felt something in his knee, having experienced a similar problem during a previous game against Hammarby.
“I felt something in my knee. I felt the same against Hammarby, so I think it might have something to do with the pitch.”
The forward was less forthcoming when asked about his future. He refused to discuss the reports linking him with a move to Sincil Bank, offering only a brief reminder of his current contractual position.
“I have a contract until 2028.”
Magnusson also rejected the suggestion that Ladefoged had already played his final game for Västerås. Speaking to FotbollDirekt, the sporting director confirmed that clubs are interested but stressed that no transfer has been completed.
“Mikkel is a VSK player tomorrow too and I don’t think he has played his last match. If he is not injured and out because of that, otherwise I am convinced that he will be a VSK player in the return match against Djurgården next week too.”
“I don’t comment on information in that way, but there is interest. It’s obvious for a player who has done so well. But he’s not ready for any club.”
Ladefoged has established himself as one of the leading forwards in the Allsvenskan this season, scoring nine goals and registering four assists in 14 appearances. His form has helped newly promoted Västerås climb into seventh place and has naturally attracted attention from elsewhere.
Magnusson acknowledged to Expressen that the reported fee would represent a significant sum for the Swedish club, but maintained that Västerås’ priority remains retaining their top-flight status.
“That’s right, but we’re here to win football matches. That’s what it’s all about. We have a clear goal of staying up. Then there’s business, and of course good players attract interest. In this case, Mikkel has done very well.”
“It is clear that these are good sums, and it shows that he is doing good things.”
Västerås had planned for Ladefoged to remain with them throughout the season, although Magnusson admitted the club must be prepared for transfers or injuries to alter those plans.
“We have planned for him to be here the whole season. At the same time, you always have to build so that things can happen. It’s not just about sales, it’s also about injuries.”
“I expect Mikkel to still be ours, and then we’ll be strong.”
His comments should not necessarily be interpreted as the end of City’s pursuit. Västerås have little reason to publicly concede that their leading scorer is about to leave while negotiations are continuing, particularly when they are attempting to secure the best possible terms.
Magnusson also pointed out that the Swedish transfer window remains open, leaving time for the situation to develop.
“We are in the middle of a window too. It’s not like it’s closing tomorrow. We’ll see how everything ends.”
For now, Ladefoged remains a Västerås player, and his knee problem will need to be assessed. However, the confirmation of interest, combined with repeated reports of negotiations between the clubs, means the possibility of him becoming an Imp remains very much alive.
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