Leeds United are reportedly on the verge of tying down Joe Gelhardt to a new contract, according to a report from TEAMtalk journalist James Marshment

The lowdown: Breakout season

Signed from Wigan having come through the academy at the Championship outfit, Gelhardt shone for the Whites' Under 23s, scoring 18 times and supplying six assists in 28 outings.

That form led to a senior bow for the 20-year-old England youth international in September 2021 against Fulham in the Carabao Cup, scoring from the spot in a 6-5 victory on penalties for the Yorkshire club.

Currently under contract at Elland Road until 2024 (Transfermarkt), Leeds are now seemingly on the brink of rewarding Gelhardt for his breakthrough into senior recognition with fresh terms and a prolonged stay...

The latest: 'On the verge'

Taking to Twitter to cite the report from TEAMtalk, Marshment claimed that the 25-times-capped England youth starlet is in line for a 'new five-year deal' at the Whites.

He stated: "As per TEAMtalk sources, Leeds United are on verge of announcing new five-year deal for Joe Gelhardt, earning 20-year-old 55% pay-rise.”

The report claims that Liverpudlian sensation Gelhardt - who was hailed as an 'astonishing' talent by talkSPORT reporter Adrian Durham - is 'likely to play an increasingly big role' for Jesse Marsch in 2022/23 and will receive £25,000 per week, a reflection of becoming 'very much part' of the American's plans.

The verdict: Smart business

Having flirted with relegation and the subsequent possibility of losing key players for cheap, tying down important assets such as the £5.4million valued youngster has to be regarded as a sensible business by Victor Orta and Andrea Radrizanni.

Last season, Gelhardt scored twice and provided four assists in 20 appearances in the Premier League, including a 94th-minute winner against Norwich City to give Marsch his first victory and ultimately keep Leeds in the top flight after surviving by just three points on the final day with a worse goal difference than 18th place Burnley.

This can only be viewed as a step in the right direction as Leeds attempt to future-proof their brightest talents.