James Debayo ready to take Leeds United opportunity amid Liam Cooper exit saga

Daniel Farke has been very careful with his selections when it comes to promoting youth players to the Leeds United first team.

While the likes of Charlie Cresswell, who has now moved away from Elland Road permanently, found it difficult to adjust to Farke's leadership, others have thrived.

Mateo Joseph is an extremely exciting talent, who is expected to play a bigger role next season, and Archie Gray was one of the most important players for the Whites last term.

Liam Cooper's exit could now offer an exciting opportunity to another young gem currently plying his trade at Thorp Arch.

Blackburn Rovers are currently "deadlocked" in transfer talks with the veteran defender, according to the Lancashire Telegraph, while extending his stay at Elland Road remains an option.

While Cooper would provide a lot of experience and wisdom to the Leeds squad ahead of the 2024/25 campaign, one player who could benefit from his exit is 19-year-old James Debayo.

James Debayo to be given Leeds United opportunity after Liam Cooper exit

Without Cooper, Farke is left with just Max Wober, Joe Rodon and Pascal Struijk as his centre-back options, and Debayo could certainly be brought through as a fourth choice.

The young centre-back has been impressing for Scott Gardner's Under-21s side, even hitting the back of the net in the final game of the season against West Brom.

The manager took notice of his performances, with the 19-year-old centre-back being taken on Leeds' pre-season tour.

Although he has yet to make his full Leeds debut, the defender will feel he has earned the opportunity and Farke needs another defensive option. Bringing Debayo through would negate the need for a new signing.

His ability to play anywhere across the backline, as well as in defensive midfield, should make him an enticing prospect, one that can provide more cover than 32-year-old Cooper if he were to return.

It will be a tough decision for Farke to make, mainly due to the player's lack of first-team experience, but any of these youngsters have the potential to be the next Gray if given the chance.

In other Leeds United news, the Whites are in talks with West Ham United over an “expensive” Crysencio Summerville package.

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