Leeds United should jump at chance to sign West Brom’s Jonathan Leko on loan

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Ipswich Town are reportedly targeting West Brom wonderkid Jonathan Leko – but he could thrill Leeds United fans.

Leeds United came closer than ever to the top flight last season

The fact that Leeds United fans spent most of last season dreaming of a return to the Premier League after 14 years in exile is testament to the excellent work done by the club, not just on the pitch but in the boardroom too.

In particular, The Whites made excellent use of the loan market in 2016/17. While Modou Barrow was nothing short of disastrous, Alfonso Pedraza, Kyle Bartley, Pontus Jansson and Hadi Sacko all made major contributions to Garry Monk’s side.

Therefore, although Leeds are entering yet another new era with Andrea Radrizzani taking over from Massimo Cellino and Monk resigning suddenly, the club could do worse than to take inspriation from last season’s near miss.

Former Leeds United manager Garry Monk

Wonderkid

And, according to the Birmingham Mail, a player simply perfect for Leeds could be available for loan this summer. Jonathan Leko may not have started a single Premier League game in 2016/17 but his nomination for the illustrious Golden Boy award, handed to the most exciting young player in Europe, is an indication of his potential.

The first player born in the year 1999 to play in the Premier League, the now-18-year-old would certainly make the average Elland Road matchgoer feel distinctly aged. Yet, he could more than make up for causing a few mid-life crisis’ by displaying the kind of street footballer skill that wowed supporters at The Hawthorns during his fleeting appearances in West Brom colours.

West Bromwich Albion’s Jonathan Leko made his top flight debut aged just 16

The report adds that Championship rivals Ipswich Town are keen. Few teams in the league are more in need of a player capable of producing something out of nothing.

However, with Leeds bidding farewell to Pedraza, and their lack of creativity costing them a place in the play-offs, bringing Leko to Yorkshire could be an inspired move.