Leeds United have been linked with for Celtic prodigy Matthew Anderson, a former Blantyre Soccer Academy player who has been dubbed 'the next Kieran Tierney'.
According to reports , Marcelo Bielsa is keen on the 17-year-old left-back, who signed his first professional deal in January 2020 with the Parkhead club after moving from Blantyre Soccer Academy in Glasgow.
What has he done so far?
He was part of the Celtic under-18s side, coached by former Leeds loan defender Darren O'Dea, who were furloughed by the club in January.
Anderson has represented Scotland at under-16s level on three occasions and played in the Victory Shield against Wales and the Republic of Ireland alongside current Leeds under-18 duo Ben Andreucci and Jeremiah Mullen.
Why would Leeds United want him?
With there being uncertainty surrounding the future of Ezgjan Alioski, Leeds are on the hunt for a new left-back this summer. Although 17-year-old Anderson may represent more of a long-term option for the Whites, the teenager has created a real buzz at Celtic.
Anderson is a dynamic and attack-minded full-back who could provide a real attacking outlet on the Whites left flank for years to come.
The Whites, who also hold an interest in another Hoops youngster Leo Hjelde , reportedly feel Anderson could be an invaluable addition the Thorp Arch ranks this summer.
What has been said about him?
Blantyre Soccer Academy chief Jimmy Whelan believes Anderson has the potential to be an outstanding player, tipping the youngster to follow in Arsenal and former Celtic defender Kieran Tierney's footsteps.
“It’s fantastic for us as a club, and it’s great to see Matthew doing so well," Whelan told the Daily Record last year.
“He really is one to watch, he is the real deal, and could be like Kieran Tierney.”
Leeds, who already have former Motherwell prospect and Scotland under-17 international Stuart McKinstry and Scotland under-19 winger Liam McCarron in their under-23s set-up, are plotting a fresh round of recruitment for the academy ahead of the new season and the signing of Anderson would represent a real coup.
