Both Tom Pearce and Sam Dalby will be departing Leeds United on loan at the eleventh hour of the January transfer window.

Leeds are still waiting to confirm the capture of Daniel James from Swansea City, according to Phil Hay at the Yorkshire Evening Post, but there are two departures on the horizon.

The YEP journalist confirms that Pearce is heading to Scunthorpe United on loan, whilst Dalby is set for a spell with Morecambe.

Pearce, who broke through last season under Paul Heckingbottom, has found his opportunities limited this season.

Barry Douglas and Ezgjan Alioski appear to be Marcelo Bielsa’s first choice options at left-back, whilst Leif Davis has been one left-sided defender to emerge from Leeds’ academy this season.

Dalby is still waiting for his senior chance at Elland Road having arrived 12 months ago from Leyton Orient.

A number of his under-23 teammates have progressed past him in the last 12 months and are pushing for inclusion in Bielsa’s first-team on a regular basis.

The 19-year-old will be linking up with a Morecambe side struggling towards the foot of the League Two table heading into the second-half of the season.

The Verdict

This is a good move for both players and should help further their development.

Bielsa has placed a lot of faith in his young players this season, but neither Pearce nor Dalby look like getting a fair shot at the first-team.

Their development will stunt if they continue to play under-23 football for too long, but these moves will give them the best chance of forging a career at Elland Road.

Thoughts? Let us know!