Leeds United have made an offer to sign Sunderland teenager Mason Cotcher, who was also a target for Arsenal.
Arsenal and Leeds appeared to be in a two-horse race to recruit Sunderland teenager Mason Cotcher after spending time on trial at both clubs in recent weeks – but it appears the Whites have stolen a march by submitting a bid to the Black Cats.
Leeds’ youth approach has received widespread praise this season, with Illan Meslier, Crysencio Summerville, Willy Gnonto, and Ethan Ampadu all earning regular minutes, while the breakthrough of homegrown right-back Archie Gray has been the most important factor in persuading young players to join their ranks, with the opportunities provided to their starlets second to none.
The transfer market is just around the corner, and if Leeds are promoted to the Premier League at the first opportunity, they may look to bring in young players to showcase their talents at Elland Road – and this appears to have already begun, with the club reportedly submitting a bid to sign Cotcher on a permanent basis from Sunderland.
Mason Cotcher Transfer Latest: Leeds Swoop for Starlet
Mason Cotcher has gained the attention of numerous large clubs throughout England this season.
According to The Telegraph, Leeds has made a permanent contract offer to Sunderland for Cotcher.
The England under-17 international has been on fire for the Black Cats, and he excelled during a trial time with the Yorkshire club. Arsenal scouts have also looked at him as a striker who is definitely in demand throughout the country.
Cotcher spent his time in north London with the under-18s and even trained alongside Mikel Arteta’s first-team group, indicating his interest in the striker.
Cotcher, who turned 17 in September, is entitled to sign a professional deal on Wearside, but he has so far failed to do so despite an offer being on the table, leaving him open to signing for another club on a free transfer – though
Sunderland will owe him a compensation sum for moving him up the ranks.
It remains to be known where Cotcher will play football in the future if Leeds and the Black Cats cannot agree on a cost for his services, but with Arsenal already interested, the kid is unlikely to have a difficult time finding a similar club.
Sunderland exit may not be the best move for Mason Cotcher.
The Black Cats’ track record of developing new players is impressive.
With Sunderland recently announcing the youngest starting XI in Championship history, as well as the development of young talent such as Chris Rigg, Jobe Bellingham, and Jack Clarke, there is every chance that Cotcher will play for Sunderland in the future, but Leeds’ progression of the likes of Archie Gray, Joe Gelhardt, and others could see them pull ahead in the race.
Rangers have also been linked with Cotcher, but Leeds appear to be the frontrunners after submitting an offer, and this is a development to keep an eye on. With three goals and one assist in six Under-18 Premier League games for Arsenal, Manchester United, and Leeds this season, the 17-year-old has every chance of becoming a star player in the top flight; however, the Whites must first complete the deal.
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