Leeds United confirm signing of Manchester City left-back | OneFootball

Manchester City have sanctioned the permanent exit of one of their rising Academy names, with Leeds United swooping to secure the services of Jayden Lienou.

City’s Elite Development Squad and Academy ranks continue to produce highly-rated talents year after year, but fierce competition for places often sees top prospects depart in search of senior opportunities.

The club’s summer activity so far has reflected that ongoing reality, with a number of permanent exits anticipated for both experienced and youthful players who have impressed but found a clearer opportunity for first-team minutes elsewhere.

Jayden Lienou, a versatile and progressive left-back, has been one of the standout figures within Manchester City’s Under-18 squad, featuring regularly during recent successful campaigns while also establishing himself as a youth international for Wales.

His departure aligns with a broader trend at Manchester City this summer — one that is also expected to see James McAtee pursue fresh opportunities away from the Etihad Stadium. For Leeds, their return to the Premier League has brought with it a sharpened focus on acquiring young talent with long-term upside, and Lienou fits that brief.

As confirmed by Leeds United, the newly-promoted English top-flight club have secured the signing of Jayden Lienou, tying the 17-year-old down to a three-year contract at Elland Road until the summer of 2028.

A statement from the Yorkshire club read, “Leeds United are pleased to announce the signing of Jayden Lienou, who joins the club’s Academy from Manchester City.

“The left-back has put pen to paper on a three-year deal with the Whites, tying the 17-year-old down to 2028 as he now continues his development at Thorp Arch.

“A regular in City’s side that last season won the U18 Premier League North, Lienou has also represented Wales at youth level.

“Everyone at Leeds United would like to welcome Jayden to the club and we look forward to seeing his development at Thorp Arch.”

As for the finances, market insider Fabrizio Romano previously reported ahead of official confirmation that the switch would take place for a package worth below £500,000, with Leeds’ Under-21 staff Adam Underwood and Andrew Taylor ‘key’ in the deal.

While the move may not attract the same attention as headline first-team transfers, it speaks volumes about the health and reputation of Manchester City’s Academy system.

Leeds are known to be ambitious in building a pathway for young players into Daniel Farke’s first team, and Lienou’s selection suggests the club views him as a long-term contributor rather than just an academy depth option.

From City’s perspective, there is every chance that the deal includes typical sell-on protections or matching rights, should Lienou blossom into a top-tier left-back over the next few years. With the market for homegrown defensive talent continuing to grow, his development will be watched closely.