Leeds United transfer rumours: £60m update in Leeds United midfielder saga, Defender speaks out on Elland Road links
Mateusz Klich has outlined his wish for teenage Leeds United star Joe Gelhardt, who is "getting closer" to the first team.
Gelhardt joined Leeds from Wigan Athletic back in August 2020 to initially operate with United's under-23s under boss Mark Jackson.
The 19-year-old continually impressed as Jackson's side stormed to promotion as Premier League Two Division Two champions, meaning top tier Academy football this term.
Gelhardt has continued his progress for club and country, the teen netting a double on his debut for England's under-20s in a 6-1 thrashing of Romania earlier this month.
The forward has enjoyed a particularly memorable September, netting braces in the under-23s clashes against Liverpool and Blackburn Rovers.
The teen was also handed his Whites first team debut this month when coming on as a second-half substitute in the third round Carabao Cup clash at Fulham which went to penalties.
The striker emphatically netted his spot kick as Marcelo Bielsa's side progressed 6-5 in the shootout - and United's Polish international midfielder Klich hopes Gelhardt's Premier League debut will now be forthcoming this term.
"It’s very good (that people are talking about him]," said Klich, speaking to BBC Radio Leeds.
"I personally like him and hope he develops like he does because he is getting better and better and I think he is getting closer to the team as well.
"I really hope he gets a Premier League start this season because I think he deserves it because he is a good player. I like him."
We’ve gathered the best of today’s Premier League speculation below…
1. Toon offered Ramsey in the summer
Newcastle United were offered Juventus midfielder Aaron Ramsey during the summer transfer window. (Chronicle) (Photo by Marco Rosi/Getty Images)
Photo: Marco Rosi
2. Man United still want Rice
West Ham ace Declan Rice is in ‘first position’ on Manchester United’s current transfer target list. (Fabrizio Romano) (Photo by Stu Forster/Getty Images)
Photo: Stu Forster
3. Everton in Simms talks
Everton are working on securing the long-term future of their academy talent Ellis Simms after holding productive talks with the young striker. (The Athletic) (Photo by Charlotte Tattersall/Getty Images)
Photo: Charlotte Tattersall
4. Gunners plot Asensio move
Arsenal will try to sign Real Madrid winger Marco Asensio for a second time when the January transfer window opens. (Cadena Ser) (Photo by GABRIEL BOUYS/AFP via Getty Images)
Photo: GABRIEL BOUYS