According to the Mirror, Leeds United are locked in a battle with Leicester City in the race to sign Sheffield Wednesday’s George Hirst.

Hirst could be on the way out of Hillsborough this summer, with the 18-year-old fearing that he will not be handed a first-team opportunity with the Owls, due to the number of strikers currently on the club’s books.

Leicester are pushing hard for a deal to sign Hirst, who is yet to agree a new contract at Hillsborough due to his doubts surrounding first-team opportunities.

The Premier League outfit have already seen a £1m bid for the forward rejected, but the Foxes are returning with a £2m bid to sign the England youth international.

Despite Leicester’s firm interest, Leeds are also considering a move for the Wednesday forward and are trying to push through a deal before the end of the summer transfer window.

Leeds are actively looking for attacking reinforcements between now and the end of the transfer window following the £15m departure of Chris Wood last week.

One striker that appears to be edging closer to a move to Elland Road is Pierre-Michel Lasogga, with the Hamburg striker reportedly on the verge of arriving at Leeds on a season-long loan.

The Verdict

It can be understood why Hirst might want to leave Wednesday, with Carlos Carvalhal having a number of striking options at his disposal at Hillsborough, limiting the youngster's first-team opportunities.

Leeds could be an excellent place for Hirst to continue his development, with the Whites known for giving young English talent an opportunity and often putting their faith in members of their own academy.

Whilst Leeds’ supporters are wanting a more high-profile addition following Wood’s exit, there is reason for them to be excited about their club’s quest to sign Hirst, with the striker one of the most exciting talents in English football.

Leeds fans… Let us know your thoughts!