Bielsa makes decision as Championship clubs circle for Leeds starlet

Leeds United will not allow Joe Gelhardt to join a Championship club on loan this month after turning down a number of offers, it is claimed.

Gelhardt joined Leeds in the summer after making a breakthrough at Wigan. The Premier League side are being patient with their recent recruit and he is yet to play for their first team.

However, he has been in fine form for the under-23s. That has led to anticipation about his development at senior level.

According to Football Insider, various Championship clubs have made offers to Leeds to take Gelhardt on loan for the rest of the season.

Leeds, though, have rejected these offers, as Marcelo Bielsa is happy for Gelhardt to continue his development in the reserves.

The 18-year-old has played in a variety of attacking roles in the Premier League 2 this season. He has scored five goals from nine appearances in the under-23 division.

Gelhardt also received an England under-19s call-up in October as his potential continues to be made clear.

Championship sides would have been hoping to take advantage of that. Indeed, he already has one goal in the second tier to his name from his time with Wigan.

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Gelhardt to continue academy role

The report hints that interested clubs may continue their pursuit, but it is not yet clear if Bielsa will change his stance.

Leeds invested in their academy side in the summer, keeping one eye to the future. Gelhardt has been one of the main recruits to have impressed so far.

He has struck up a good understanding with fellow new boy Sam Greenwood, who joined from Arsenal. Their combination could continue in the reserves for the rest of the season.

Gelhardt is under contract at Elland Road until 2024.

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