Today’s Football Transfer News looks at the latest news from the Football League, including Tom Heaton, who is being chased by two Championship promotion rivals. Plus, can Sunderland keep hold of star striker Josh Maja? FTN, brought to you by Last Word on Football, also looks at two young Championship stars wanted by the Premier League’s big guns.
Championship Transfer News
Spurs and Liverpool Set to do Battle over City Youngster
Bristol City’s talented youngster Lloyd Kelly is attracting interest from several Premier League heavyweights. Spurs and Liverpool appear to be the front-runners at present but it is also being reported that Arsenal are keen as well. Kelly made his breakthrough into the City first team this season playing at left-back. However, he can also play as a central defender, versatility that makes him an even more attractive signing.
6’3″ inch Kelly has played 18 times this season and has also been capped by England at Under 21 level. The 20-year-old was also invited to train with the England senior squad by Gareth Southgate.
Villa and Leeds Chase Heaton
Aston Villa and Leeds United are set to do battle over England international Tom Heaton. The goalkeeper has lost his first team place at Burnley due to injury and the form of Joe Hart and Nick Pope. The 32-year-old former Burnley number one has played just three times since September 2017. Villa are now reportedly ready to offer Heaton a permanent deal.
Leeds are also interested after losing their keeper Jamal Blackman to a broken leg. However, their manager Marcelo Bielsa has played down the chances of any signings in January due to cash restraints. This could leave Villa in pole position.
Maja Moving Rumours Continue
Sunderland’s young star striker Josh Maja continues to be linked with a move away. Maja is currently in contract talks with the Black Cats and although he has stated he is happy to stay and the club are confident of keeping him, clubs continue to monitor him. A host of Championship sides have been linked with the 19-year old, including Middlesbrough and Bristol City.
Sunderland have offered a new deal to Maja, whose current deal runs out next summer. Maja is the highest scoring teenager in the Football League and manager Jack Ross is keen to keep his squad together. With less than a month to go before the transfer window opens, Sunderland will be hoping they can get their striker to sign a new deal.
United’s Young Star a Wanted Man
Leeds United’s 18-year-old wonderkid Jack Clarke is wanted by Manchester City. Clarke signed his first professional contract 13 months ago and it is reported that Pep Guardiola has monitored his progress ever since. The City boss has had the winger watched several times and has reportedly received glowing reports. A bid in January is now to be expected.
Clarke has yet to start for Leeds but has featured from the bench on five occasions. He has impressed during his time on the pitch with his electric cameo appearances. City, however, could have competition for his signature in the way of Premier League rivals, Chelsea.
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