Leeds United talent Carrick Njinko is starting to attract interest from across Europe, with his contract winding down at Thorp Arch.
United’s growth towards being Premier League mainstays requires a steady stream of academy talent coming through the ranks each season.
There are a few that are certainly catching the eye right now, no more so than goalscoring striker Carrick Njinko.
Leeds United talent Carrick Njinko attracting interest as Whites plan contract extension
Njinko’s form at Thorp Arch has been a real talking point of United U21s’ season so far. In 14 games so far this season, he’s notched 11 goals, including a hattrick against West Brom.
However, his contract is currently running down towards expiry in the summer. Daily Mail journalist Tom Collomosse reports that the 18-year-old forward is attracting interest from Premier League clubs as well as “top European clubs”.
Of course, Leeds are currently in a somewhat vulnerable position as Njinko’s contract runs until the summer of 2027. However, Leeds are alert to the possibility of losing the free-scoring striker and want him to stay put.
Talks are ongoing to sort the teen striker’s future as soon as possible.
Leeds United need to reaffirm Thorp Arch academy strength with Carrick Njinko agreement
Even if the current crop of academy players never play regularly at Elland Road, the club need to make sure these players see a pathway to the senior side.
It’s brutal to look at youth players merely as assets, but the club ought to view it that way. Someone like Njinko could leave on a nominal fee next summer, or he could be worth millions in years to come.
Leeds need to make sure that happens consistently with players this talented. If they show promise, we have to make them feel wanted, because there are obviously clubs out there willing to take the chance.
Our position as a somewhat steady Premier League club should be enticing, though. I’d anticipate Njinko being keen to stay put.
