Bournemouth have jumped to the front of the queue in the race to land Tom Pearce, a reliable football journalist is reporting.

According to Alan Nixon, Leeds United face a battle to keep young defender Pearce with Bournemouth really stepping up their interest in his services.

The England under-21 international only broke into the first-team at Elland Road at the end of the season, playing five times and scoring once against Barnsley.

Pearce impressed sufficiently in those five outings to convince Leeds to offer him a new deal but his performances did not go unnoticed with Premier League clubs sniffing around for a bargain.

He is out of contract this summer and any potential suitors would have to pay a compensation fee.

But the young left-back is expected to pen a fresh deal with Leeds, although this has not dissuaded Bournemouth.

The Cherries are pressing ahead in their pursuit of Pearce and have submitted an offer to Leeds, despite the expectation of him signing a new deal.

Everton have also shown an interest in their former academy player, but they are now not in a position to counter Bournemouth's bid.

The Verdict

Pearce is a raw talent and his attacking threat makes him the perfect modern day full-back in the making.

There is still plenty for the 20-year-old to learn but he would be best off staying at Leeds where he could ply his trade with regular minutes at a competitive level.

At Bournemouth, he is likely to deputise for Charlie Daniels and play much less football so he needs to make the right move for his career and remain at Elland Road.

Leeds fans - Will you keep Pearce? Let us know below...