Leeds United deal for Celtic defender Leo Hjelde is ‘imminent’
Leo Hjelde’s move from Celtic to Leeds United is “imminent”, according to Fotball Norge.
Hjelde, 17, was nowhere to be seen for Celtic’s B team on Tuesday night when they drew 1-1 with Civil Service Strollers in the Scottish Lowland League.
The defender, who can play at centre-back and left-back, has been called up to the latest Norway Under-18s squad and that led to Fotball Norge being asked on Twitter whether his move to Leeds is going to be sealed.
The Norwegian news outlet reported via their Twitter account that “it’s imminent” and added the youngster “has been left out of both Celtic’s A and B squads” since talk of a move to Elland Road emerged.
Nettavisen journalist Stian Andre de Wahl has previously reported that personal terms have already been agreed for Leeds to sign Hjelde.
One for the future – and now
Hjelde is only 17-years-old but he already has senior experience to his name having spent the second half of last season on loan at Ross County.
He played a major role in helping the Staggies avoid relegation from the Scottish Premiership as he made 11 league appearances and even scored one goal.
The Norwegian teenager played at centre-back, left-back and even on the left-wing for John Hughes last term [transfermarkt] and Leeds could do with more first-team depth at left-back.
Junior Firpo started on the bench at Manchester United on Saturday and that led to Stuart Dallas filling in and weakening the midfield.
Dallas needs to be allowed to play further forward so could we see Hjelde play as a back-up left-back? It’s unlikely this season but he could be in contention and may get the odd appearance in the cup competitions.
We’re excited about signing this young player.
He might not excite other fans who are desperate for first-team signings but as one for the future – and potentially for this season – it’s not a bad deal at all.
In other Leeds United news, the Whites will seal this major signing once a big hurdle is passed.