Ryan Edmondson could be the latest youngster to leave Leeds United this January transfer window, according to The Athletic's Phil Hay. 

Despite impressing for the under-23s both this season and last season, Edmondson has only featured once under Marcelo Bielsa.

United currently only have one first team striker and the fact that Edmondson hasn't even made Leeds' bench in recent weeks has left some fans scratching their heads.

The 18-year-old offers a large presence up front and could be used as a target man if Leeds were in search of a late goal, as well as adding physicality to the side.

Bielsa, however, doesn't seem to think Edmondson is ready for first team action yet and has resisted in even naming the 18-year-old in his matchday squads.

During a Q&A on The Athletic (14/01), Leeds United writer Phil Hay tried to offer some clarity on Edmondson's short term future.

When asked on whether any younger players would leave on loan, Hay answered: "Edmondson is one who could go out, you'll have seen with Bielsa, though, that he doesn't like loaning out youngsters who are close to the first team picture."

The Verdict

Hay has dropped a big hint one way or another in regards to Edmondson's short term future here.

The way I see this playing it out depends on other factors around Leeds this window.

Should United bring in a striker such as Che Adams then I can see the 18-year-old being loaned out for the remainder of the season.

If Leeds fail to bring in another striker, however, I can't see them being left with any other option but to use Edmondson in the latter stages of the season.

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