Cody Drameh admits Marcelo Bielsa factor was huge in his decision to join Leeds United

Leeds United’s newest recruit, Cody Drameh, has set his sights on becoming the latest Elland Road youngster to break into the first-team ranks in LS11.

The Whites confirmed the capture of the highly-rated full-back on a four-year deal for an undisclosed fee from fellow Premier League outfit Fulham.

The 18-year-old was said to be a wanted man, despite failing to make a single first-team appearance during his time at Craven Cottage, and it is seen as a bit of a coup for United to land his signature.

Drameh has seen his stock rise tremendously in recent seasons and made 17 Premier League 2 appearances last term.

In that period he provided seven assists for his side and also appeared in all three of the Cottagers’ EFL Trophy games - facing League One and Two clubs respectively.

Drameh has been capped three times at international level with the England Under-18s.

The defender had entered the final year of his contract in west London, which left Fulham with no option but, reluctantly, to cash in on his services.

After putting pen to paper on his move to Leeds on Thursday, Drameh admitted that the lure of Elland Road and working under head coach Marcelo Bielsa was a huge factor in his decision to make the switch north.

The young full-back also highlighted Bielsa’s work with Manchester City defender Benjamin Mendy as something he would like to emulate during his time with the club.

“A lot of players have made their debuts over the past few years under [Marcelo] Bielsa,” said Drameh.

“I’m looking to add my name to that list. He’s managed a lot of big, big names.

“The one I was interested in was Benjamin Mendy.

“The way he transformed him [at Marseille], obviously I am a full-back so hopefully he can do similar with me and improve me like that. It was a huge factor for me. I’m just really excited to work with him.”

Asked about moving from the capital to West Yorkshire, he added: “I’m delighted to join this massive club and I can’t wait to get started.

“I’ve got a great engine and a lot of stamina. I like to get up and down the pitch. I can defend well.

“I might need a bit of improvement in attack but that’s what I’m here for, to work under the coaching staff at Leeds and get better.

“It’s been 16 years [since Leeds were in the Premier League] and a long wait so I think the fans, along with everyone, are excited.

“Leeds are back where they belong, in the big time.

“First and foremost I want to break into the first team and then, let’s see. The club has ambition - I want to win a few trophies while I’m here.”