Football Insider have reported that Leeds United have made an official approach for Arsenal youngster James Hillson.
The 19-year-old goalkeeper is making waves in the North London club’s academy, having impressed this term for both the under-18 and under-23 sides.
Whilst Hillson has only made a handful of appearances at youth level this term, his reputation has been blossoming and the Premier League club are set to offer a new contract to the young ‘keeper. Although he could sign a new deal at the Emirates Stadium, it is reported that he will be loaned out to gain first team experience and Leeds are now said to be keen on bringing him to Elland Road.
A potential move for Hillson could see boss Marcelo Bielsa have a new set of options for the goalkeeping spot in his side next season. The Yorkshire giants have an option to activate the loan of Illan Meslier into a permanent deal, whilst the future of Kiko Casilla is unclear after a racism charge earlier this year.
Despite the experience of Casilla and the improving talent of Meslier, Bielsa needs to ensure that he gets his goalkeeper selection spot on for the club’s likely Premier League return next season. Although question marks remain about who will be between the sticks next term, a link to former England international and Burnley keeper Joe Hart has also emerged in recent weeks.
Nonetheless, the reported interest in the fledgling talent of Hillson, who has seemingly impressed sufficiently at Arsenal to prompt talks of a new contract, is encouraging from a Leeds perspective.
Do you think Hillson could make an impact at Elland Road, Leeds fans? Let us know in the comments section below…
