The likes of Sam Greenwood, Joe Gelhardt, Cody Drameh and Crysencio Summerville were all brought into the Whites’ under-23s ranks following the club’s return to the Premier League.
Although their progress in the Checkatrade Trophy fell slightly below-par, Leeds have seen the benefits with Greenwood the latest name in a long list of academy players to be handed first-team debuts by Marcelo Bielsa.
And a report from The Sun claims Leeds have set their sights on Wigan Athletic wonderkid Sean McGurk – Gelhardt’s former teammate – in January.
McGurk was first linked with a move to Elland Road last summer and Leeds are said to have followed up on their interest this month with a rejected bid.
Although an offer has been knocked back by the League One club, Leeds are not expected to give up on the 17-year-old, whose contract expires at the end of the season.
Scottish Premiership leaders Rangers could look to sign the midfielder on a pre-contract agreement. If or when McGurk’s contract expires, any fee could then be decided by tribunal.
Meanwhile, McGurk could effectively replace Spanish forward Rafa Mujica, who is reportedly in talks over a permanent move back to his homeland.
The 22-year-old is currently on loan at Real Oviedo, though has appeared just five times.
Here’s a round-up of some of the other transfer rumours, including McGurk, involving Leeds and their Premier League rivals this evening:
1. Man Utd shelve Trippier plans
Manchester United have shelved plans to sign Atletico Madrid right-back Kieran Trippier this month amid uncertainty over the outcome for breaking betting rules. (Manchester Evening News) Photo: Denis Doyle
2. No talks held over Kenny
Burnley are believed to be weighing up a move for Everton’s Jonjoe Kenny, though there have been no talks between the two clubs so far. (Liverpool Echo) Photo: SASCHA SCHUERMANN
3. Liverpool plot summer White move
Liverpool are planning a summer move for Brighton defender Ben White having scouted him extensively during his loan spell at Leeds. (Liverpool Echo) Photo: MIKE HEWITT
4. Bissouma expected to stay put
Yves Bissouma is expected to remain at Brighton until at least the summer, despite interest from clubs in England, France and Germany. (Footmercato) Photo: Mike Hewitt
5. Brighton set to sign Caicedo
Brighton and Hove Albion are set to announce the £4.5million signing of Ecuador star Moises Caicedo in the next few days. (Sky Sports) Photo: Pool
6. Lingard holds Nice talks
Jesse Lingard's representatives have held initial discussions with French club Nice over a loan move, with an official approach expected in the next week. (Sky Sports) Photo: Richard Heathcote