Leeds-linked 19-year-old who won Under-17 World Cup with England makes decision on his future

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Reported Leeds United target Danny Loader has officially made a decision on his future.

Leeds were linked with the former Reading striker in July, the Daily Mail claiming the Whites were in the race for his signature along with Crystal Palace, Swansea and Portuguese side Vitoria SC.

Loader was handed his debut as a 16-year-old by Jaap Stam back in August 2017 and was given his league debut by Paul Clement at Wigan Athletic the following season.

However, the Under-17 World Cup winner has failed to kick on at the Madejski Stadium, scoring just twice in 35 senior games, and eventually left the club upon the expiry of his contract.

The Reading Chronicle reported that Loader had been offered a new deal, but it was withdrawn due to financial difficulties brought about by the global health crisis.

Sadly for Leeds, Loader won’t be turning out at Elland Road, as he has put pen to paper at Portuguese giants Porto, agreeing a two-year contract.

The Under-17 World Cup champion will link up with Porto’s B team, before aiming to break through at first team level.

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Loader may have not had the best of times at Reading but that’s not to say he can’t do it elsewhere – his record at youth level is impressive and, at just 19, he has his whole career ahead of him.

Marcelo Bielsa is known for giving youth a chance and improving players, so Elland Road wouldn’t have been a bad destination for him to kickstart his career, particularly given his versatility – he can play wide or up front.

However, it’s not to be, and Leeds will have to look elsewhere to strengthen their ranks ahead of their long-awaited return to Premier League action.