The chance to develop under Lincoln City boss Michael Appleton was a key factor in Leeds United opting to send Robbie Gotts to the Imps on loan, according to BBC Sport's Adam Pope.

Reports have indicated that Lincoln have won the race to take the Whites midfielder on loan, with confirmation expected today.

There was no shortage of suitors for Gotts – with the likes of Huddersfield Town, Charlton Athletic, Doncaster Rovers, and Swindon Town linked – but it appears that the Imps have their manager to thank for landing the Leeds academy product.

Pope has reported that the feeling at the Yorkshire club is that the central midfielder's progression will be best served playing regular games under Appleton.

It is understood that Marcelo Bielsa rates the 20-year-old highly due to the positive impact he has on the training levels of the group.

Gotts was handed his first-team debut by Bielsa last term but has been restricted to just one Carabao Cup appearance this season and it appears he is now set to join Lincoln ahead of tomorrow's deadline for domestic transfers.

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The Verdict

Landing Gotts is a real boost for the Imps and it appears they have their manager to thank for clinching the deal.

Appleton appears to be very highly rated as a coach, as evidenced by the number of loanees in his squad this term – with Nottingham Forest, Tottenham, and West Bromwich Albion all entrusting him with their young players.

The 20-year-old has not looked out of place when given opportunities by Bielsa in the past, so it will be very interesting to see how he fares playing regulatory elsewhere.