Ben Andreucci quits Leeds United on permanent basis to join Bolton
Leeds United sensation Ben Andreucci has penned a permanent deal with League One side Bolton Wanderers.
Andreucci, 18, has been prolific for the Whites’ under-18s side, scoring 19 goals in 39 appearances after coming through the ranks at Elland Road.
Wanderers announced the signing of the striker on Wednesday 7 June. The Scotland under-18 international will join up with the Lancashire side’s B team after agreeing on a two-year deal.
Andreucci also featured for Michael Skubala’s under-21s side during the 2022/23 season.
Shame
It’s always a shame to see a talented prospect depart. However, there will be failures along the way when it comes to younger players. Andreucci is at a crucial age where he needs to be playing regular first-team football, and the move to Bolton could see the youngster given the odd League One outing.
The use of academy products will probably be few and far between this season. Joe Gelhardt and Cody Drameh could make an impact but the board and the 49ers are unlikely to trust kids when it comes to securing Leeds an immediate return to the Premier League.
It’s refreshing to see the takeover issue now reaching its conclusion. For too long, Andrea Radrizzani’s agreement with the 49ers seemed to be put on ice. Now, the new owners can really begin to stamp their authority of proceedings at Elland Road.
Their first priority must be finding a new manager to take the club straight back up to the Premier League.
In other Leeds United news, the club may now face a losing battle to keep their star player at Elland Road beyond the summer transfer window.