Leicester City and Burnley are reportedly interested in Celtic’s out-of-contract starlet Josh Kerr – but Leeds United may have an advantage.
Leeds United’s season has ended in the most bitter disappointment, missing out on the play-offs after five months in the top six. Yet, at least the club can take solace in the fact that the future looks bright at Elland Road with manager Garry Monk bringing through and improving a number of their highly-rated youngsters.
Ronaldo Vieira (above) had only played one senior game before this season but now the 18-year-old is one of English football’s most exciting talents. Furthermore, Kalvin Phillips and the soon-to-be free-agent Charlie Taylor have taken their game to new levels under Monk’s leadership.
And that’s without mentioning the likes of Lewis Cook and Alex Mowatt, making waves in the first team after being brought through as teenagers. Meanwhile, Mallik Wilks, Tyler Denton, Bailey Peacock-Farrell and co look set for a run in the first-team sooner rather than later.
Therefore, Leeds’ impressive youth record could give them the edge in the pursuit of Celtic youngster Josh Kerr. HITC sources told us that the 19-year-old defender, who joined from Hamilton in 2013, is out of contract this summer and has attracted attention from a number of Premier League and Championship clubs.
Burnley manager Sean Dyche
However, although the prospect of joining Leicester City or Burnley in the top tier may appeal, the fact is that Leeds have a far superior track record when it comes to giving young players an opportunity.
Therefore, Kerr, whose chances will be helped by the fact he can play at right-back and centre-half, would surely have a much greater chance of making his mark if he moved to Elland Road.
HITC sources state that Celtic are still hopeful he will sign a new deal and it takes a brave man to leave the Scottish champions at such a young age – especially with manager Brendan Rodgers (below) also renowned for improving young players.
Yet, Leeds could reward Kerr’s risk.
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