Leeds United explain reason for out-of-window Kenneth Mensah exit as loan to Scarborough confirmed

Leeds United confirmed that youth star Kenneth Mensah has joined National League North side Scarborough Athletic on loan this Thursday.

The Whites have allowed the youngster to join Scarborough on loan until the end of the season, a loan exit that has come out of nowhere.

There are special rules that allow youth players to make moves outside of the traditional summer and winter windows, with moves to National League side's usually permitted.

Leeds explained on their website that the transfer is seen as a "work experience loan", revealing that they will be monitoring the midfielder's progress closely and wish him well on his new journey.

Mensah will return to Thorp Arch at the end of the season, where the Whites will hope that he has contributed to Scarborough finishing in the Play-offs, and possibly earning promotion.

Kenneth Mensah factfile; everything you need to know

Many Leeds fans may not be familiar with Mensah, but he is one of the hottest prospects that the Whites have on their books right now.

The 17-year-old mainly plays as an attacking midfielder, but is versatile and open to playing wherever instructed.

As seen in the table above, Mensah is a regular feature for Leeds' U18s, but has even earned himself a premature call-up to the U21s squad for impressive performances.

He now looks to be outperforming the level of U18s, despite just being 17, and will need to adapt to a more physical setting in the National League North division.

Mensah is Italian and will be hoping to play for his country one day.

Mensah is just one of the several talented youngsters Leeds have, but if this loan goes right, he could be set for his professional debut next season.

This is why Mensah's move is particularly interesting

What's interesting about the move for Mensah is that the Whites have clearly constructed a detailed loan transfer for him.

But given they can do this for one of their best-performing youngsters, why can't they do it more often?

Daniel Farke's use of the youth squad has been criticised, and though it's hard to see how any could have an impact in the Premier League this season, none have been given a chance in cup competitions either.

Leeds need to be doing what they can to boost their chances of having success with their youth setup, and they've made the right choice with Mensah, who should come back to Thorp Arch a man transformed.