Report: Leeds United want to sign highly-rated Hamilton defender George Stanger

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Leeds United are keen on the signing of Hamilton teenager George Stanger, according to a report in the Evening Times.

The highly-rated youngster looks set to leave the Scottish Premiership outfit on loan, amid interest from Leeds.

It is understood that the Championship club are wanting to take to the player on a permanent basis.

The Accies see Stanger as a star of the future, however, and would prefer to loan the defender out instead.

The central defender is an under-23 international for New Zealand and was recently called into their squad for a game against Australia.

Given that Leeds can’t do any business until January they could be forced to hold fire on landing Stanger until the window reopens.

Hamilton boss Brian Rice did pick the youngster to play in a Challenge Cup fixture against BSC Glasgow. He isn’t, however, thought to be part of Rice’s regular first-team plans just yet.

TBR Verdict – Defenders are a priority at Leeds

The link to Stanger is no surprise really, considering how desperate Leeds are for a central defender.

Liam Cooper and Ben White are the first choice pairing in Marcelo Bielsa’s team, with Gaetano Berardi the man in reserve.

The Melrose-born defender would certainly add some cover to the club’s ranks, although he would probably be seen as one for the future.

Leeds might have to wait and see before making a move though. If he does go out on loan somewhere else in Scotland prior to the deadline closing, the first-team football would do him the world of good.

The Whites do have a history of allowing youngsters to shine in the first-team, however, and an eventual move there would surely seem attractive.