Yorkshire Evening Post’s chief football writer Phil Hay has confirmed that Leeds United’s interest in signing Manchester United striker Ashley Fletcher is ‘genuine’. Massimo Cellino is hoping to conclude a deal to bring the player to Elland Road.
It is understood that Fletcher is out of contract with the Old Trafford club, but has been offered a contract extension, which he is expected to sign. Therefore, Leeds will be hoping to sign the youngster on loan for next season.
The link to Man Utd striker Ashley Fletcher (on loan at Barnsley this season) is a genuine one. He's a player Leeds have looked at. #lufc
— Phil Hay (@PhilHay_) June 6, 2016
Garry Monk was official unveiled as the new head coach at Leeds United last week, signing a one-year rolling contract after Steve Evans was relieved of his duties.
The ex-Swansea manager is looking to bolster his forward line to help introduce more goals into the Whites team. Monk has already signalled his intentions to play an attacking brand of football during his time at the Elland Road helm.
Fletcher played a major part in Barnsley’s double triumph on loan last season by scoring in the Play-Off Final victory against Millwall, and also helping them on their way to the Johnstone’s Paint Trophy by defeating Oxford United at Wembley.
He ended the season strongly, scoring four in their last five, so much so that Jose Mourinho wants to keep him on the books at Old Trafford. They see him as a player for the future and could match the rise of Marcus Rashford. Still, he’ll need first-team experience to aid his development and a chance in the Championship for the first time could be a beneficial move for all concerned. Barnsley will probably be keen on signing him as well, so they will be monitoring developments very closely. Last week we covered news of Leeds’ initial interest in the player, and it appears that Cellino is hoping to conclude a deal in the near future.
