Birmingham City have fought off competition to sign Jonathan Leko from West Bromwich Albion.
The 21-year-old has made the short trip to St Andrews, signing a three-year deal with the club. Leko arrives at Birmingham for an undisclosed fee and becomes Aitor Karanka’s fourth signing of the window.
Jonathan Leko Joins Birmingham City
✍️ We are delighted to announce the signing of forward Jonathan Leko on a three-year deal.
— Birmingham City FC (@BCFC) August 28, 2020
Jonathan Leko: Talented Individual for Both Club and Country
Leko joined West Brom’s academy at the age of 11 and rose through the ranks at an impressive speed. He made his Premier League at the age of 16 years and 344 days, becoming only one of a handful of players to have tasted Premier League football at that age. Leko then spent much of the 2016/17 season with West Brom U23s. His performances earned a nomination for the Golden Boy award in 2016, and, subsequently, he was subject to interest from a number of Football League clubs.
Leko’s progress has also always been monitored by the national team. He has been capped by England’s youth teams from U16’s right through to U20’s.
Unproductive Loan to Bristol City
At the start of the 2017/2018 campaign, a then 18-year-old Leko joined Bristol City on a season-long loan. However, it proved to be a step too far for the youngster. After 11 goalless appearances, he was recalled by West Brom and remained with the club’s U23s.
Impressive 2019/20 Season Halted By Injury
Leko then enjoyed a much better spell at Charlton Athletic during the 2019/20 campaign. Charlton started the season off excellently, and Leko had scored five goals and recorded four assists in 21 appearances. However, on 27 December Leko’s season was cut-short after an ACL injury against Queens Park Rangers.
Upon suffering his injury, the 21-year-old headed back to West Brom for treatment.
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