According to the Scottish Sun, Championship title chasers Leeds United have agreed a deal to sign Motherwell starlet Stuart McKinstry.
The Scottish Sun writes that Leeds United have agreed to sign Motherwell’s hot prospect Stuart McKinstry in the summer transfer window. The youngster travelled south of the border to Leeds to agree a deal this week.
It was reported during the January transfer window that Premier League outfit Southampton were looking to hijack Leeds’ move for McKinstry. The Saints had also agreed on a fee for the youngster. However, it seems that the Championship side have come out on top in the battle to secure the Scotsman’s signature.
Leeds will reportedly pay £150,000 as an upfront payment, but the fee could rise to £400,000 through add-ons and performance-based incentives, including if he breaks into the first team at Elland Road.
The youngster is highly regarded at Fir Park, despite not making a senior appearance for the club. McKinstry has featured in the senior team’s matchday squad on one occasion this season, as he was an unused sub in Motherwell’s 1-0 defeat to Kilmarnock.
He has two international caps at youth level, playing twice for the Scottish Under-17s side, picking up one goal.
So, what can Leeds fans expect from the youngster? The Motherwell club website writes that the 16-year-old is a “tricky winger who combines pace, with a direct approach and threat in front of goal”.
It can be assumed that he will link up with the club’s youth sides upon his arrival but could make his way into Marcelo Bielsa’s senior side. The Argentine has shown faith in youngsters since his arrival, with Jack Clarke and Jamie Shackleton featuring frequently this season.