Leeds United confirm fourth January transfer window exit as midfielder joins League Two club

Bate departs Elland Road on loan for the second time after spending time at League One side Oxford United last term. The ex-Chelsea youngster has featured predominantly for Leeds' Under-21s this season and has not made a senior matchday squad since August.

First-team boss Daniel Farke has sanctioned loan moves for Luke Ayling and fellow U21s midfielder Darko Gyabi already this month, the pair joining Middlesbrough and Plymouth Argyle, respectively. This is in addition to Djed Spence's season-long loan being terminated early.

Bate joins up with Mike Williamson's squad in Bedfordshire and will be greeted by a familiar face in ex-Leeds striker Max Dean who sealed a permanent switch to the team currently 7th in League Two last January.

An official club statement read on Friday evening: "The 21-year-old midfielder has made one first team appearance for the Whites this season, coming off the bench in the Carabao Cup victory over Shrewsbury Town at Elland Road.

"He now heads to the Sky Bet League Two club to work under Mike Williamson, with his side currently in a play-off position in the league.

"Everyone at Leeds United would like to wish Lewis the best of luck during his :me away from the club."