‘Well worth it’… 20-year-old admits he was ‘very excited’ to leave Leeds after difficult few months

Add as preferred source on Google

Leo Hjelde has completed a move from Leeds United to Sunderland on a permanent basis this week, signing a contract until June 2028 – and he underlined his excitement at moving to the Black Cats.

It has been a difficult few months for Hjelde. The 20-year-old returned to Leeds in the summer after a successful stint on loan at Rotherham United. He earned praise from Liam Cooper during pre-season.

He was one of a number of Leeds youngsters expected to benefit from the club being relegated to the Championship. The likes of Charlie Cresswell, Joe Gelhardt, Sam Greenwood and plenty of other stars.

But it has not turned out that way with Daniel Farke deciding to bring in a number of new signings. That is not to say that Hjelde was not given a chance. He started the opening League game of the season.

But Farke hooked him at half-time during the 2-2 draw with Cardiff, and he has not been used in the Championship since by Farke. A difficult spell. He spoke to Sunderland’s website after his transfer.

“I was very excited, I had to have a chat with my Dad as well. He showed me how big the club was and everything, with the massive support. It was an opportunity I couldn’t turn down, well worth it,” he said.

Leo Hjelde on his excitement to exit Leeds United for Sunderland

Hjelde is a talent. There is a player in there, but at Leeds – he never got the stage to go and prove his potential. He didn’t get that at Celtic, either. At Sunderland, he may now have the opportunity to shine.

Michael Beale is renowned for his ability on the training ground and his track record is certainly good when it comes to young players. Sunderland have a young squad and Hjelde fits right in at home, there.