Credit: Imago

Max Wilkins

Sun 10 May 2026 8:24, UK

Leeds United are looking to improve their youth side with a potential double swoop at Aston Villa.

The Whites have had a mixed campaign for the academy, with the Under-21s and Under-18s struggling in their respective divisions.

An 11th-place spot for the latter leaves them just three places above bottom-place Stoke City after losing three games on the trot.

Given how positive things have been on the men’s side under Daniel Farke as they steer clear of relegation, it needs to be reflected throughout Thorp Arch.

With a view to doing exactly that, Leeds have begun trials for their academy side, with youngsters now coming in from Aston Villa.

Leeds United take Aston Villa academy pair on trial

The Villans are one side who have certainly taken their academy seriously in recent years and have improved drastically as a result.

Nothing will sum that up more than ending their U18 Premier League season with an 8-3 win over Ipswich Town on Saturday.

There were many star performances last year, proving that there is a true conveyor belt of talent coming through at Villa Park.

That is especially the case after they won the FA Youth Cup and PL2 last season, with both Cole Ramsey and Junior Wilson playing a role in those wins.

LUFC Youth has now reported via X that the Villa U18 duo have both joined Leeds on trial after their triumph last campaign.

Ramsey is an 18-year-old attacking midfielder and the younger brother of Jacob Ramsey and Aaron Ramsey, who have both featured in the Premier League.

Wilson is a defensive option, typically operating as a centre-back, with the 18-year-old acting as a regular in the Youth Cup victory in B6.

Leeds do have Rhys Chadwick coming through, among others, but it is certainly great to see them looking to add fresh talent to their roster.

How did Leeds fare in the FA Youth Cup?

The Whites are now taking a closer look at two talents with experience of winning the FA Youth Cup in claret and blue.

That can only be a boost after a difficult campaign for the Whites in the competition that is set to end with a final between Manchester City and Manchester United.

Leeds were knocked out in mid-January as Swansea City secured a 2-1 win in the fourth round to end any hopes of a cup win at Elland Road.

That extends the Yorkshire club’s wait for the trophy to over 29 years since they last lifted it in 1997.

There is now hope that the potential additions of Ramsey and Wilson could make a difference and bring winning experience to Thorp Arch.