Leeds United have entered the race for Ashley Fletcher.
Ashley Fletcher celebrates after scoring the second goal for Barnsley
Leeds United have set their sights on signing Manchester United sensation Ashley Fletcher, report The Sun (5/6 page 65)
It is claimed club owner Massimo Cellino has instigated the Whites’ push for a deal, which would be on a season long loan.
Cellino was at the League One play-off final at Wembley and saw Fletcher score after just two minutes for Barnsley.
The Tykes earned promotion to the Championship, and Leeds will be up against Barnsley for his signature, who are keen to get him back on loan for another year.
The 20-year-old netted nine times for Barnsley in total, including two in the play-offs.
Fletcher has been compared to United teammate Marcus Rashford, and even openly wondered if he could replicate the teenager’s breakthrough.
Marcus Rashford celebrates after scoring the first goal for England
Fletcher last week told The Mail: It is strange to think what might have happened if I had stayed at United and not gone on loan, when you see what took place with Marcus.
‘Part of you thinks, “It could have been me.” But football is funny like that – opportunities can crop up at any time for people and the main thing is that I am very proud of what I have done since I came to Barnsley. I have helped the team and who knows what could happen in the future.’
Leeds United Chairman Massimo Cellino
Leeds United are looking for a striker to sign after releasing Mirco Antenucci, who was their second highest goalscorer last season.
Previously, Cellino has only insisted on loan deals if there is an option to buy, and it remains to be seen if this could prove to be a stumbling block to acquiring Fletcher for the season.
Leeds last week appointed Garry Monk as head coach, replacing Steve Evans.
Swansea manager Garry Monk
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