Former Leeds United striker Noel Whelan has tipped goalkeeper Elia Caprile for big things after signing a new three-year deal.
The 19-year-old stopper has joined Serie C side Aurora Pro Patria 1919 on a season-long loan to continue his development.
Caprile has been a regular in Mark Jackson's under-23s side and has now put pen to paper on a new Whites deal, committing his future to the club until the summer of 2024.
The stopper was given a 90-minute run out for the under-23s against Guiseley this pre-season, while Dani van den Huevel played the friendlies against Fleetwood Town and Jong Ajax.
Former Whites forward Whelan believes this is the right move for his development.
He told Football Insider: “It’s a big opportunity for Caprile.
“When a player comes in, in this case Kristoffer Klaesson, there is always going to be an opportunity for somebody to go out on loan and get the experience and progression that they need.
“Caprile is still very, very young. Time is very much on his side.
“There is a lot of value in sending young players out on loan to get first-team experience and Leeds can see that.
“This move is the next step in Caprile’s development. It will stand him in good stead when he returns next season.
“The club have never been afraid to send the youngsters out on loan. If a player cannot contribute to the first team the next question is, can we get him out on loan? If all goes well it can help him challenge for a place next season.”
