Leeds United face Finlay Gorman transfer repeat as European giants set sights on big talent
Leeds United have a number of hugely promising talents coming through their ranks.
Harry Gray signed a new deal at Leeds on Tuesday to ensure his progression will continue into the first team.
Harry’s brother Archie Gray trod that same path to Leeds’ first team before earning a big-money move to Tottenham last year.
However, not all players make it through the youth ranks into the senior side. Some simply prove not good enough, while others decide they fancy their chances elsewhere.
For example, Finlay Gorman joined Manchester City from Leeds in January 2014 in what was considered a blow at the time.
And Leeds could have a similar scenario on their hands if the latest reports are anything to go by.
Leeds talent Sam Alker eyed by Borussia Dortmund – but there’s a catch
Leeds’ focus right now is on Friday’s clash with West Ham, with Premier League survival the only objective this season.
But that is not to say the Whites do not also have one eye on the future, with those aforementioned talented youngsters soon to be vying for a place in Farke’s senior squad if good enough.
England youth gem Sam Alker is still some way off that yet, but whether or not he continues his path with Leeds remains to be seen.
According to a report via the Daily Mail‘s website on Wednesday, Alker is attracting interest from Borussia Dortmund and fellow Bundesliga side Bayer Leverkusen.
The report adds that Alker has been offered a professional contract by Leeds but has yet to sign ahead of his 17th birthday next March.
European clubs have been alerted to his possible availability, but there is a catch.
Alker cannot officially sign for a club in Germany, or abroad, until he turns 18 in 17 months’ time.
Who is Leeds talent Alker?
Alker is described in the same report as a “skilful, technical number 10”.
The 16-year-old is a regular for Leeds U18s, including six appearances so far this season and one yellow card to his name.
Alker has also been capped by England at age-grade level.
Other notable names coming through the ranks at Leeds:
- Darryl Ombang (Goalkeeper)
- Jayden Lienou (Defender)
- Sam Chambers (Midfielder)
- Josh McDonald (Midfielder)
- Lewis Pirie (Forward)
- Marley Wilson (Forward)
Alker plays at the same level as Harry Gray, who turned 17 earlier this month, while Jacob Howard and Josh Hamilton are two other England youth internationals in the squad.
Talented players will inevitably be wanted by European heavyweights, especially when they offer a quicker route to senior football, but hopefully Alker can see the grass is greener for him at Thorp Arch.
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