Gavin Whyte showing why Leeds United were keen with excellent Oxford form

By Mathew Nash

This summer Leeds United were heavily linked with a move for Northern Irish winger Gavin Whyte. The 22-year-old was the top-scorer in the Northern Irish top-flight last season with Crusaders and such incredible form saw Leeds take a heavy interest in signing the player, as reported by Sky Sports.

But those links first emerged back in May. Paul Heckingbottom was still Leeds manager at the time and, at the start of June, he left. Replaced by Marcelo Bielsa any links with Whyte soon went dark and it became clear Leeds would not be signing the talented forward.

Instead, he headed to Oxford United.

The League One side completed a deal for the player in mid-July to help them in what will hopefully be a promotion campaign.

14th August 2018, Kassam Stadium, Oxford, England; Carabao Cup football first round, Oxford United versus Coventry City; Gavin Whyte of Oxford United brings the ball forward (photo by Simon West/Action Plus via Getty Images)

Despite good business across the club, Oxford have actually struggled this season. They won their first game of the season last weekend and have conceded more goals than any other team in the league.

However, Whyte has been one of the shining lights for Oxford.

He has been in excellent form, scoring three goals in five games for the club and fans are already won over by his displays.

Leeds United would do well to keep an eye on his progress. Based on current form, he could easily go on to thrive in English football and at a higher level.