New Joe Gelhardt contract must now be priority for Leeds

Add as preferred source on Google

Joe Gelhardt may well have now had his own Pablo Hernandez moment with the 94th minute winner in Leeds United’s absolutely vital Premier League clash with Norwich City on Sunday.

Gelhardt sent Elland Road into a frenzy by tapping in Raphinha’s cut-back. It certainly has the potential to be a turning point in their season after Jesse Marsch’s men came so close to throwing a win away.

It was a further reminder of why the hopes are so high for Gelhardt. The goal was almost made even more special because it was the 19-year-old there to score. He is already a huge fan favourite. And there is a massive buzz every time he threatens to come onto the pitch.

Obviously, it is difficult for Leeds to make too many concrete plans right now. Their situation remains precarious. And it is still extremely tough to call whether the likes of Raphinha and Kalvin Phillips will still be there next season.

Leeds have been linked with offering new contracts to both players amid speculation over their futures. And they will surely step up those plans should they manage to stay up.

But perhaps the next name on the list of contracts Leeds address now needs to be Gelhardt.

Leeds must act with Gelhardt contract up in just over two years

The teenager’s current deal expires in 2024. Therefore, this summer could well be a crucial period as he prepares to enter the last two years of his terms.

There is bound to be interest in the forward. He has been electric for the under-23s. And it would now appear that he is not going to get the chance to make too many more appearances at that level.

He is very much a first-team player now. He is still working his way up the pecking order. But he is proving that he can make a major impact in the Premier League. Jamie Redknapp described him as ‘really exciting‘ earlier this season.

Gelhardt has two goals for Leeds, has won two penalties and set up another goal.

If anyone was in any doubt, Gelhardt has now proved that he is a superstar in the making. And Leeds need to do all they can to make sure that he stays at Elland Road for as long as possible.