Leeds United employee ‘sure’ on Darko Gyabi role as ‘brilliant’ news confirmed
Noel Whelan has backed Leeds United new arrival Darko Gyabi to make his first-team breakthrough in the 2022-23 season after completing a move from Man City.
The former Whites striker, speaking exclusively to Football Insider, claimed the 18-year-old is the latest in a line of “very smart” recruits.
Leeds United announced the arrival of Gyabi from Man City on Monday (4 July) – in a deal entirely separate to Kalvin Phillips’ Etihad Stadium switch.
The highly-rated midfield star signs a four-year deal at Elland Road – with the Yorkshire giants paying City a reported £5million for his services.
Gyabi is yet to make a senior appearance in his career but has been an integral part of Man City’s successful youth sides at Under-18 and Under-23 level.
Whelan backed the London-born teenager to make his breakthrough in League Cup games at the beginning of the 2022-23 season.
“This is what Leeds United have done for a number of years now,” he told Football Insider‘s Ewan Kingsbury.
“We’ve recruited brilliantly in the Under-23 level, and progressed them through – increasing their value in the process.
“We spot talent and nuture it. I’m sure that this season Gyabi will find his feet in the first-team side with League Cup games and make a real step in his development.”
Leeds United have also completed deals for Brenden Aaronson, Rasmus Kristensen, and Marc Roca so far this summer.
Joe Gelhardt, Sam Greenwood, and Lewis Bate are examples of young Whites stars procured from other top academies.
In other news, Football Insider updates as Leeds United battle Rangers and Norwich City in race for Championship star.