Leeds United are thought to be interested in a move for Linfield teenager Cole Brannigan.

The Lowdown: Academy additions

The Whites were proactive this summer when adding to their youth ranks, with a number of players brought into the Thorp Arch academy.

Darko Gyabi and Sonny Perkins were the two high-profile arrivals from Manchester City and West Ham respectively, whereas younger players Max McFadden and Charlie Crew joined from Colchester United and Cardiff City respectively.

Leeds also secured the services of goalkeeper Rory Mahady from Celtic, and it appears as if the club are now eyeing an out-of-window move for Brannigan.

The Latest: Brannigan next?

According to The Sun on Saturday evening, Leeds are among a number of Premier League sides who are keen on Brannigan.

The report claims that Chelsea, Liverpool and Manchester City are also interested in the Northern Ireland under-16 international.

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The Verdict: Good to see

Leeds have been building for the future and have already reaped the rewards with the likes of Illan Meslier, Pascal Struijk and Joe Gelhardt all now regulars under Jesse Marsch.

The likes of Gyabi and Perkins could follow suit in years to come, so a clear pathway to first-team football at Elland Road might tempt Brannigan over joining Chelsea, Liverpool or Man City.

It could prove to be another academy coup if the Whites get a deal over the line, so we’ll have to wait and see if Victor Orta can do just that.