Brenden Aaronson has told Leeds United’s YouTube that duo Joe Gelhardt and Lewis Bate are “amazing” and have got him “excited” to play for Leeds. Leeds confirmed the Aaronson’s arrival at Elland Road on Thursday.
Aaronson, 21, has been a long-term target for Leeds. The USA international was the subject of offers from Leeds in January, but Salzburg chose to keep Aaronson ahead of a Champions League knockout clash against Bayern.
But he has now joined the club, signing a five-year deal at Elland Road. A deal is believed to have cost the Yorkshire side in the region of £24million. His announcement on Thursday was quick, after a medical that day.
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Speaking after confirmation, Aaronson says he is “excited” by the potential of a number of Leeds youngsters. He name dropped both Joe Gelhardt and Lewis Bate as examples, branding the duo as “amazing” and “exciting”.
“It’s very exciting. Seeing some of the talents coming through right now, it is amazing. Joe Gelhardt, Lewis Bate, a few other younger players that are killing it. They’re getting trusted by Jesse and it’s exciting,” Aaronson said.
Aaronson ‘excited’ by ‘amazing’ Leeds duo Bate and Gelhardt
While Aaronson’s arrival has caused excitement among Leeds fans, it must be remembered that the new signing is only 21 himself. Gelhardt is 20, and Bate is 19. The trio are at similar stages of their careers.
Aaronson, of course, is likely to become a first-team regular next season while Gelhardt and Bate will be fighting for more game time. But it is important to keep in mind that Aaronson is still very young.
He will need time to adapt and grow in the Premier League. Leeds cannot expect fireworks straight away from the midfielder – they may come later.
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