Daniel Farke, manager of Leeds United

Daniel Farke to make Marley Wilson decision amid official Leeds United announcement

Senior Correspondent AUTHORITY Senior football journalist specialising in refereeing and officiating; former contributor to The Football League Paper, Late Tackle, and the Premier League; University of Derby graduate. FOCUS Refereeing controversies, football finance and governance, PGMOL decisions, and officiating analysis across the Premier League, EFL, and SPFL. THE INSIGHT Harri utilises a network of officiating and industry contacts to deliver verified, expert analysis of refereeing decisions and PGMOL policy. He provides the regulatory clarity behind the controversy to ensure fans get the full picture.

Published on:

10 Jul 2024, 9:10 am

Marley Wilson could be set for his senior Leeds United breakthrough next season.

The 18-year-old has become the fourth academy player to put pen to paper on a professional deal in the last 48 hours, committing his future until the summer of 2025 [Leeds United].

Wilson has been in fine form over the past season, notching seven goals in the U18 Premier League, including hat-tricks against Everton and Derby County while also netting against Nottingham Forest.

The forward's season was hampered, though, as he suffered a season-ending injury in March.

His displays did earn him a call-up to the Under-21s squad, though he has only been on the fringes so far. The youngster's heroic displays came out during Leeds' FA Youth Cup run to the final.

Wilson scored in three consecutive rounds, netting against Norwich City, Brighton and Sheffield United but faced a ban in the semi-final and final after facing Liverpool in the quarter-finals.

Daniel Farke to promote Marley Wilson to Leeds United first team

There is a lot of uncertainty over Leeds' attacking lineup ahead of the 2024/25 campaign, with Crysencio Summerville, Georginio Rutter and Wilfried Gnonto all being linked with Elland Road exits.

However, this could play into Wilson's hands slightly, even despite his age. Archie Gray has proven that age is not a limiting factor at Elland Road.

If Wilson is good enough to impress Farke, he could certainly be utilised alongside Patrick Bamford, Joel Piroe and Mateo Joseph in attack.

✍️ Congratulations to Marley Wilson, who has signed his first professional contract with the club, committing his future until 2025 pic.twitter.com/EGNh7tVF6X
— Leeds United (@LUFC) July 10, 2024

While the aforementioned trio are more inclined to play down the middle, Wilson can play anywhere across the frontline, which could tempt Farke into bringing him through to the first team set-up earlier than anticipated.

It is highly unlikely that Wilson will receive a starring role heading into the next campaign but he is certainly one who could make a breakthrough.

In other Leeds United news, the Whites’ transfer priority has emerged following developments at Elland Road.

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Leeds United

Daniel Farke

Marley Wilson