Stevens has been impressive for Leeds’ second string.
Approaching the January transfer window, foreign clubs are able to purchase players for nothing under the Bosman ruling if their contract runs out in the summer. None of Leeds squad currently do, but decisions must still be made.
A spree of long-term deals were handed out last season, which sees only Leeds loan stars set to leave Elland Road at the end of the season. But in the Under-23’s, it is a different story.
A handful of Carlos Corberan’s impressive second string are fighting for a new contract as well as showing that they deserve a chance to shine in the first team. Jack Clarke is the latest to be promoted and make his senior debut.
There have been many impressive performers in the reserves, including the likes of Pascal Struijk, Robbie Gotts, Callum Nicell and Hugo Diaz. But one has stuck out like a sore thumb.
Jordan Stevens signed for Leeds in January from cash-rich League Two side Forest Green Rovers, after turning out 15 times in all competitions for the Gloucestershire-based side.
Able to play in holding midfield, attacking midfield and even out wide, Stevens has been superb in Corberan’s side. But his contract is set to expire at the end of the season, after agreeing an 18-month deal in January.
His performances certainly warrant a new deal, and Marcelo Bielsa has got to activate the clause in his current deal that will automatically keep Stevens at Thorp Arch until the summer of 2020.
BBC Sport reported after he joined Leeds in January from Forest Green, that the option of another year had been included and it is now time to consider whether that would be worth activating.
But certainly, based on his recent performances as well as his versatility and determination, Stevens deserves another 12 months after this season to show he can cut it with the senior side.
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