Credit: Imago

Aheed Abrar

Thu 9 April 2026 20:40, UK

Leeds United are keeping an eye on Hearts defender Alfie Osborne ahead of the upcoming transfer window.

Sky Sports reported on 7 April that the Whites are among a host of clubs monitoring the 17-year-old who will be a free agent at the end of the season.

It has been reported that several teams from around Europe have sent scouts to watch the Scotland Under-19 international in action for the William Hill Premiership outfit’s B team.

The talented centre-back’s arrival could potentially pave the way for Sebastiaan Bornauw’s exit in the summer, with the Belgium international struggling for minutes at the West Yorkshire outfit.

Paraag Marathe’s transfer plans at Elland Road may depend on whether the Peacocks avoid Premier League relegation, leaving the former VfL Wolfsburg defender’s future in doubt.

Leeds United can pull off bargain deal to replace Sebastiaan Bornauw

Leeds will have to pay £190,000 in training compensation if they do end up signing Osborne in the summer.

While it’s highly likely that the Whites will send the young prospect to their youth team to develop, he could possibly act as a first-team defender when needed.

The West Yorkshire outfit have clearly seen something in the Scottish defender that suggests he could become a top prospect in the future.

Bornauw has been left frustrated at Elland Road due to a lack of game time and form, and it wouldn’t be surprising to see him leave the Peacocks at the end of the season.

Daniel Farke should trust the youth at Elland Road

Daniel Farke has been reluctant to give young players an opportunity at Leeds this season, and while it’s understandable on some level, the German manager should have an eye on the future.

The Whites’ sole focus in the current campaign has been to avoid Premier League relegation, leading the 49-year-old to rely on a core group of players.

There has been no pathway for young players to showcase their talent and Harry Gray opted to join Rotherham United in the winter transfer window for first-team experience.

It will be interesting to see how Farke’s side evolves if they stay in the top flight for another season and whether he will try to give youth prospects more opportunities at Elland Road.