Leeds United: Peacock-Farrell edges closer to signing new deal

Young Leeds United goalkeeper Bailey Peacock-Farrell is expected to sign a new deal in the next 24 hours after holding fresh contract talks with the club today.
Leeds United goalkeeper Bailey Peacock-FarrellLeeds United goalkeeper Bailey Peacock-Farrell
Leeds United goalkeeper Bailey Peacock-Farrell

Peacock-Farrell and Leeds have been negotiating improved terms for several weeks after the 19-year-old broke into the first-team squad and made his senior debut in the recent Championship season.

United are looking to tie him to a two-year contract, replacing the 12-month agreement he signed when he turned professional last summer, but discussions hit an impasse after Peacock-Farrell’s advisors asked for assurances about a number of issues, including his role next season.

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Marco Silvestri is established as first choice keeper at Elland Road but the experienced Ross Turnbull is poised to return from a broken ankle, potentially threatening Peacock-Farrell’s place on the bench.

Current United number one Marco SilvestriCurrent United number one Marco Silvestri
Current United number one Marco Silvestri

The youngster also wanted clarification about who Leeds planned to install as head coach, a situation which was resolved when Garry Monk took over from Steve Evans last week.

Concerns about a goalkeeping coach - a position which is vacant after Richard Hartis’ departure to the England set-up - are likely to have been eased by Monk’s plan to recruit a replacement before the start of the 2016-17 season.

Peacock-Farrell’s debut in a 1-1 draw against Queens Park Rangers in April is his only senior appearance to date. Evans talked up his talent last December, saying: “This boy will play in the Premier League.”

Leeds would have been entitled to compensation had Peacock-Farrell chosen to leave the club at the end of his existing deal but an agreement is expected to be announced before the end of this week.