Arsenal are reportedly set to rival Leeds United for Rangers’ highly-rated 15-year-old defender Jack Wylie in January.
According to Football Insider, Leeds United are vying for 15-year-old Scottish defensive sensation Jack Wylie. The Yorkshire giants face competition from Arsenal for the Rangers teenager, who is not eligible yet to sign a professional contract with the Ibrox side.
Premier League clubs always look for prodigious young talents to boost their youth ranks. With how most clubs operate across Europe and England, some high-level prospect is constantly emerging on top clubs’ radars.
Rangers have come under the focus for developing some top-level talents. And 15-year-old Scottish defensive sensation Jack Wylie is their latest creation. The young defender has already earned rave reviews for his performances for the national youth sides.
Among his suitors are Leeds United, who remain keen to improve their youth ranks. After a solid summer window bringing in first-team players, the Whites also ensured few of their highly-rated youth stars signed long-term deals.
Sam Greenwood, Joe Gelhardt and Crysensio Summerville penned new contracts. Moreover, Leeds signed 18-year-old striker Wilfried Gnonto to improve their ranks. Now they want to explore the idea of signing Wylie from the Rangers.
Leeds director Victor Orta has focused on youth recruitment. And signing someone like the 15-year-old Scottish defensive sensation would be a good step forward. However, the Yorkshire club have competition coming from Arsenal.
The Gunners were in the news lately regarding their 15-year-old sensation Ethan Nwaneri, who is already attracting the interest of other top clubs. Rather than planning to sell their youngest-ever Premier League debutant, Arsenal plan on keeping him and adding to their youth setup. And Wylie is one of the players on Arsenal’s radar.
The Gunners recently sent youth scout Lee Herron to watch the 15-year-old Scottish defensive sensation in action during Scotland’s under-16 game against Denmark. And Arsenal may accelerate their pursuit as early as January.
Arsenal have had major success producing youth prospects in recent years. The likes of Bukayo Saka, Emile Smith Rowe and Joe Willock have forged successful careers out of the Hale End Academy. Wylie can be their next addition, provided he decides to join the Gunners.
Leeds United are reportedly in pole position for their track record with young talents. Wylie could be a great addition, but the lure of Arsenal could also be tempting.
