Leeds priority target drops hint about where he will play next season amid contract stalemate
By Tom Blackburn
Leeds target Ashley Fletcher has hinted that he will be staying at Manchester United despite leaving a contract offer unsigned.
Fletcher's Old Trafford agreement expires at the end of June and Leeds have been keeping a close eye on the 18-year-old over the previous weeks.
Talking to the Manchester United website, Fletcher noted the rise of fellow youngster Marcus Rashford and confessed he still dreams of playing for the Red Devils.
"Hopefully, when I go back I’ll get my chance in the future," Fletcher said. "That’s the ultimate goal - playing for Manchester United.”
As reported by Football Insider, citing the Yorkshire Evening Post, Fletcher is regarded as priority target by Leeds.
Leeds are not the only Championship club interested in the youngster, with Barnsley also interested following their promotion from League One.
Fletcher was loaned out to Barnsley last season, where he scored seven goals in 23 league appearances.
The forward is reportedly keen to continue his development by playing regular first-team football.
He signed professional forms at Old Trafford in 2014 but has yet to appear in a competitive game for his parent club.
Leeds are in the market for strikers after averaging just over a goal a game during the recent Championship season. Mirco Antenucci, who finished the term as second highest goalscorer with nine to his name, was released by the club last month.
Owner Massimo Cellino is thought to be open to a loan move or a permanent deal for Fletcher, but wants him at Elland Road next season either way after witnessing him score a second minute opener in the play-off final.