Leeds United may be eyeing a move for ex-Sunderland goalkeeper Max Johnstone, as the 20-year-old appears to be on trial with the club. 

According to the Shields Gazette, the goalkeeper represented Leeds in their pre-season friendly against Tadcaster Albion on Wednesday.

The shot-stopper played all 90 minutes for the Whites, conceding just once in a 5-1 victory.

Johnstone was one of three under-23 players to be released by the Black Cats at the end of last season, having spent just one year at the club.

The Englishman made eight Premier League 2 appearances for the Sunderland under-23s in the 2018/19 season, keeping just one clean sheet.

The younger brother of West Bromwich Albion goalkeeper Sam Johnstone, the 20-year-old is also a product of the Manchester United academy but left Old Trafford on a free transfer to join Sunderland last summer.

Johnstone was described by Black Cats academy manager Paul Reid as "a good size and character" and a player that the North East club felt they could develop.

Things don't seem to have panned out for Johnstone at the Stadium of Light but it appears Leeds have recognised similar traits in the Preston-born goalkeeper and are considering adding him to their squad.

If the Whites bring him in permanently, Johnstone will likely join Carlos Corberán's under-23s squad.

The Verdict

A move for Johnstone is unlikely to be something that impacts Leeds prospects this season but it could be a move that pays dividends in the future.

The Whites have made a number of additions to their academy sides this summer, including Barcelona duo Rafa Mujica and Guillermo Amor, and it appears Johnstone may be the next man through the door.

The 20-year-old has been unable to make an impact at either Sunderland or Manchester United but he is a young man and has a lot of time ahead of him to develop.

There has been an emphasis on improving the Leeds academy under owner Andrea Radrizzani and now would be a great time for Johnstone to join the club.