The Norwegian moved to Villa Park on loan at the start of the season but he is due to return to Elland Road at the end of this month and he has been quoted as saying that he is unwilling to stay should a permanent offer not be made.
David O'Leary says he wants to extend Bakke's stay but has no funds to complete a permanent signing but Kevin Blackwell's transfer plans would be hit if Bakke did return and the club had to take his £20k per week wages back on.
Meanwhile, the 32-year-old De la Cruz has been told he can go when any suitable offer comes in and this could be the ideal solution for both sides.