Leeds must do everything to keep 19-year-old amid Italian interest, he is the future – opinion

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Leeds United are expected to lose a number of first team players this summer following relegation to the Championship last month.

Marc Roca, Robin Koch, Jack Harrison and Rodrigo are just of four of several almost certain to move on, which could open the door for several of their youth prospects to step into the fold.

Since promotion three years ago, Leeds placed a huge emphasis on quality academy recruitment, bringing in numerous talented youngsters from clubs across England and Europe.

It is time for that strategy to start paying dividends and while relegation was hugely disappointing for the club, some of the young players may actually benefit.

That said, Leeds cannot afford to start selling some of those young talents on top of the numerous senior players set to move on, with some having attracted interest.

Leeds cannot afford to sell Hjelde amid Italian interest

One of Leeds’ talented stars attracting interest is defender Leo Hjelde, with Serie A side Salernitana said to have identified him as a potential target.

Hjelde spent the second half of last season on loan at Rotherham United and his impressive time in South Yorkshire means he is now ready to make an impact at Leeds.

The 19-year-old has made five appearances for the first team at Leeds and on each occasion, has not looked out place, whether that be at left back or centre back.

His ability to play left back already makes him a huge asset to the club, with Leeds’ only recognised option in that position Junior Firpo set to move on.

However, there is no doubt his best position is in central defence, and while Leeds are well stocked in that area, he should be given a chance.

There remains uncertainty surrounding the futures of both Pascal Struijk and Max Wober, while it is time Liam Cooper starts to take a more peripheral role.

Hjelde is excellent on the ball, possessing the ability to play piercing passes through the line, and also has the physical attributes required to be a top centre back.

Given his lack of senior experience, the sort of fee Leeds could command at this stage of Hjelde’s career would be minimal.

There would be no sense in selling him from either a football or financial perspective.