16-year-old Charlie Allen in action for Linfield. (Image Credits: Linfieldfc.com)
According to the Yorkshire Evening Post, Championship side Leeds United are leading the race to sign Linfield wonderkid Charlie Allen.
The highly-rated 16-year-old, who plays for Belfast club Linfield, has been under the radar of Leeds after bursting onto the scene last year. However, the Championship leaders face tough competition for the teenage sensation’s signature with clubs such as Chelsea, Spurs, Liverpool and Manchester City all interested in him.
Allen grabbed the attention of football scouts after making his senior debut aged 15 years, five months, and five days. By making his first-ever senior team appearance, Allen became the club’s youngest ever debutant and also set up an assist in that game, which speaks volumes about his potential.
The teenager has made seven senior team appearances this season, six of them as a substitute before play got suspended due to the coronavirus crisis. With his performances on the pitch ever-improving, Allen was also included in Linfield’s 25-man squad for a Champions League qualifier with Rosenborg. Had he featured in that game, Allen would have made competition history.
Meanwhile, Leeds United are enjoying a successful spell under manager Marcelo Bielsa, who has led them to the top of the table in the Championship this season. Also, Bielsa has shown that he is more than willing to place his faith in the side’s youngsters.
With the likes of youngsters such as Jamie Shackleton, Leif Davis, Mateusz Bogusz and Jordan Stevens having impressed for Leeds since making their debut under Bielsa, Allen’s interest seems like a welcome move.
Having proven his credentials already at such a young age for Linfield’s senior side, there is no questioning the teenager’s talent. He could prove to be a good future investment for Leeds if they succeed in landing him.
Having featured both as a forward and midfielder for the Belfast-based club, Allen’s versatility can also be a valuable asset for Bielsa side’s in the future. At present, they have three forwards – Patrick Bamford, Tyler Roberts and loanee Jean-Kevin Augustin.
However, Augustin’s loan spell with the Whites is set to expire this summer and he is expected to return to his parent club, RB Leipzig. Considering all that, Allen looks like an excellent addition to the Leeds squad. Hence, they should soon make a move for the teenage sensation with a clear eye on the future.
Despite still in his teens, Allen has proved his worth by breaking into Linfield’s senior squad last year. Touted as a future star, Allen could be a great addition to Leeds, where many youngsters have thrived under the guidance of Bielsa. Moreover, he is just 16 and could develop his game under the guidance of Bielsa if the Championship outfit manages to grab his signature.
