Leeds United have confirmed a wave of youngsters to have been tied down to professional contracts in early July, including centre-back Jacob Howard.
Long-term Premier League stability is the goal at Elland Road and the 49ers have a huge summer underway to get us closer to that goal.
On top of the shiny new signings such as Harry Wilson and Tarik Muharemovic (to be confirmed), there’s also got to be a focus on the academy.
Jacob Howard amongst Leeds United youngsters penning professional contracts
The Leeds academy have confirmed a host of contract agreements for key youngsters coming through the Thorp Arch ranks.
Callum Mills, Loui Whitehead, Luke Matykiewicz, Sam Alker, Jacob Render, Jacob Morris, Kenneth Mensah, Will Firth, Josh Hamilton, Oliver Wood, Freddie Lane, and Darryl Ombang. Every player there has been tied down to fresh contracts on a mixture of one and two-year deals.
However, Jacob Howard’s extension stands out more than most. The talented centre-back has been tied down for three years until the summer of 2029.
Howard broke through into Leeds’ U21 side at just 16. In the process, he’s impressed at the heart of defence under head coach Scott Gardner.
Jacob Howard could be Leeds United’s next bright talent to break through
Each player on that list could well have a blossoming career ahead of them. However, it’s clear what the club think about Howard.
Every other contract was one or two years, but Howard has been tied down for three. It’s a very strong hint that the centre-back is incredibly highly rated at Thorp Arch.
His comments after penning a deal outline his delight at playing for his boyhood club too.
“It is an honour. I am just proud and excited to carry it on into the new season. It is a dream come true, obviously, to support the club and live and die by the club,” he told LUFC.
“I signed when I was 10, in the U11s, so I have been here a while now. My dad and family have been a big help on this road to get to this place. And obviously as well, all the coaches that have taught me what they know have been massive. Hopefully I can make them all proud.
“I just play with my heart on my sleeve and I will give it everything – passion, leadership to hopefully get on that pitch.”
Leeds have to make it our priority to have Howard progressing well. Whether it’s an EFL loan for the England youth international, or more development close to Leeds’ senior group, this year could be vital for him.
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