New Leeds United target Luke Baartman has been compared to Henrik Larsson by his current club’s sporting director Sean Connor – saying Baartman’s speed and movement reminded him of Larsson.
Baartman, 17, has caught the eye after breaking into Cape Town Spurs’ senior side this season – playing five times for the top-tier outfit. He has even scored in a 3-2 loss to Kaizer Chiefs, earlier this month.
On Saturday, he got his first full start and lasted the entire 90 minutes – while also boasting two caps for South Africa’s Under-17 side. Little surprise that he is starting to generate interest from European clubs.
The Sun recently reported that Leeds and Celtic were looking at a move to land the versatile attacker. It is likely that Cape Town Spurs will have to sell the attacker, in order to bring some cash into the club.
Connor, who has managed in Ireland for all of the big-hitters including Galway, Sligo Rovers, Bohemians and Dundalk, is now in South Africa. He likened talent Baartman to that of Larsson and Craig Bellamy.
“I saw him train on my second day. His spatial awareness, movement and pace reminded me of Craig Bellamy and Henrik Larsson from when they were at Celtic,” Connor said, as quoted by The Sun.
“I’ve not had a feeling like this about a player since I gave Seamus Coleman his opportunity. As soon as I brought Luke into the first team, he’s not looked out of place. Testimony to the young man’s character.”
New Leeds target Luke Baartman compared to Henrik Larsson
Baartman looks a real talent and while the technical director of his own club will be keen to big him up in the eyes of potential buyers, he is still a possible future gem. Leeds have every right to be interested.
But as his reputation grows in South Africa, so will the interest in him and by the time January arrives, it might be that bigger clubs than Leeds – or, Premier League sides – are taking a look. Leeds must act.
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