Why Charlie Allen is a good addition for Leeds United
According to the Daily Mail, Leeds United have completed the signing of Charlie Allen from Northern Irish side Linfield for an undisclosed fee.
The highly-rated 16-year, who is capable of playing both in the midfield and as a forward, has agreed on a three-year contract and will join the Whites’ under-18 side. Meanwhile, Allen achieved the rare feat of becoming Linfield’s youngest ever player when he made his senior debut for the club in April 2019 aged just 15 years, five months, and five days.
Despite still in his teens, Allen went on feature three times for the Northern Ireland top-division side this season, giving a clear idea of his talent and potential.
Allen an excellent future investment for Leeds United
Meanwhile, Leeds under Argentine boss Marcelo Bielsa emerged Championship winners this term, securing top-flight promotion after a long gap of 16 years.
Though they looked well oiled and drilled in all departments, Bielsa needs reinforcements in his side if they wish to stay in the Premier League for a longer run.
That said, Leeds’ decision to rope in a rising talent such as Allen seems like a step in the right direction. With the side currently having as many as 11 midfielders and four strikers in the ranks, it is highly unlikely that Allen would be offered first-team opportunities.
However, having proved himself at such a young age at Linfield this season, he could prove to be an excellent future investment for Leeds. His versatility could also be an added benefit for any side, let alone Leeds.
Hence, by all means, Leeds’ decision to complete the transfer of a teenage talent like Allen is definitely a welcome sign.
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Verdict
First of all, it is evident that Leeds have enough established midfielders and strikers in their midst, meaning it would take some time for Allen to break into the first-team. Despite that, he offers Bielsa an option in the coming days and this will only bolster the Whites’ squad. Also, he is just 16 now and could go on to become an excellent future star if he develops well.