Top-flight manager says Leeds United try to sign Celtic talent in January transfer window

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Ross County manager John Hughes has told BBC Sport that Leeds United tried to sign Celtic teenager Leo Hjelde in the January transfer window, but instead the youngster moved on loan to Dingwall – where he has since impressed.

Hjelde, 17, has gone on loan to Ross County from January after failing to make his senior debut for Celtic in his first 18 months at the club – following his move from Rosenborg in the summer of 2019. He has clocked up nine Ross County appearances.

Despite his age, Hughes has placed his faith in the Norway youth international. He has played at centre-back, left-back and in numerous other positions – even scoring his first professional goal in a 3-2 Scottish Premiership win over Kilmarnock.

Premiership manager Hughes has commented on Hjelde – claiming that the youngster will become the “next” Virgil van Dijk who, of course, starred for Celtic before moving down south. He also stated that Leeds tried to sign him, before going on loan.

“Leo is going to be the next Van Dijk – trust me on that,” Hughes said. Playing real men’s football and standing up to it – it’s been a wonderful experience for Leo. Before he came, Leeds United were after him.”

TBR’s view – Hjelde has enormous, enormous potential

To be playing regularly and to the standard he is performing at, at Ross County in the top flight of Scottish Premiership is remarkable. He has become a regular in the side, and has three caps for Norway’s Under-17 side.

With Leeds United’s Under-23 side expected to gain promotion to Premier League 2’s top tier on Friday – additions are likely to be made to Mark Jackson’s reserves and Hjelde would be an excellent place to start.

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