Josh Clarke has rejected Premier League interest to sign a professional contract with Leeds United and has revealed that he has got "everything I want right here", according to The Express.
The Leeds United starlet decided to ignore interest from the likes of Manchester City to sign his first professional deal at Elland Road.
The 17-year-old put pen to paper on his birthday, agreeing to a three and a half year deal which commits his future to Leeds until the summer of 2021.
The talented teenager has been in prolific form this season, netting nine goals in seven starts for the Leeds under-18 side.
His performances have not gone unnoticed with Man City watching him and Thomas Christiansen inviting him to train with the senior squad.
“It feels good because it’s just what I’ve been working towards for a while, and it’s a bit of a relief to get it so early.
“It means I can push on now, and not have to focus on it for the next couple of years.”
The starlet also added that he is more than happy to stay at Leeds rather than make a big move.
Clarke added: “I’ve been here for so long, and I feel like I’ve got a good support behind me at the academy.
“I wouldn’t want to leave when I’ve got everything I want right here.”
The Verdict
It is so refreshing to see a young player wanting to stay in a Championship academy rather than having their head turned by Premier League interest.
Many players would be tempted to join Manchester City if they came calling but Clarke seems settled at Leeds and determined to make a name for himself there.
It's now time for Clarke to repay Leeds' faith by working hard in the under-18 and under-23 squads before staking a claim for a first team spot in a season or two.
Leeds fans - What do you make of Clarke's decision to stay despite Man City interest? Let us know below...