‘Big factor’ – Joe Gelhardt sought help from ex-Leeds ace before sealing Whites switch
Leeds United confirmed their fourth signing of the summer on Monday, with Joe Gelhardt arriving from cash-strapped Wigan Athletic.
The Latics troubles meant that the Whites secured one of England’s brightest talents for only £1million upfront with add-ons.
Gelhardt was delighted to get the chance to work with Marcelo Bielsa and admitted that he can’t wait to score goals at Elland Road.
The 18-year-old sought help from teammates ahead of his move, sharing that Tom Pearce helped make up his mind quickly.
“I’ve seen a few young players come through the ranks at Leeds, Tom Pearce was at Wigan with me and he told me a lot about the club which helped me a lot and it was a big factor for me,” he told the club website.
“As a child, you dream of playing in the Premier League, it’s the best league in the world and hopefully I will get the chance to do that this season.”
Gelhardt didn’t share what exactly Pearce said, but it clearly helped. The former Leeds man did send a message to the forward on Instagram, and his love for the Whites was still clear.
“My bro,” he wrote. “All the best, great club and great fans.”
Pearce spent five years at Leeds after moving from Everton back in 2014 and made the step into the first-team under Paul Heckingbottom.
The 22-year-old made 10 senior appearances for the Whites, including an early goal for the first-team – something Gelhardt will be hoping to replicate next season if given the chance.
In other Leeds United news, this reliable journalist has shared the Whites’ loan stance after confirming the signing of Gelhardt