Leeds have agreed a deal to sign Scott Wootton for an ‘undisclosed fee' from Manchester United , beating off competition from a number of other clubs who wanted to sign the “highly rated” defender.

Originally it was thought that we were looking to sign the 21-year-old on a loan deal, but this is a permanent transfer, and Wooton has signed a three—year contract. He is primarily a central defender, but he can also play in either full back position, which may well be jolly handy at times when we need to cover for injuries and suspensions.

Wootton is a former England youth international and he made his first team debut at Manchester United last season after progressing through the Old Trafford Academy. He also gained valuable Championship experience during loan spells with Nottingham Forest and Peterborough United, which thankfully gave me the opportunity to illustrate this piece with a picture that didn’t show him in a Man U shirt.

The official site was very pleased with this signing and Chairman Salah Nooruddin said “We’re delighted to agree a deal to bring in Scott. He is a young player who has played on the biggest stage, and who Brian identified as one he was keen to sign, not just for what he brings now, but for the future as well."
And managing director David Haigh said: “The owners and board have said all along that we will support Brian in strengthening the first team squad in order to create a successful and sustainable future for Leeds United. Scott fits the bill perfectly and we welcome him as an exciting addition to the squad that the manager is shaping.”

While Brian McDermott wasn’t going to be left out and he said “I’m delighted to have agreed the signing of Scott Wootton on a three-year deal. He’s a player who has played in the Champions League and someone we feel will develop with us in the coming years I want to say thanks to the owners for doing the deal and bringing another young player to help us go forward.”

Wooton is likely to go straight into the squad for Saturday’s trip to Ipswich. Let’s hope that even though he didn’t manage to secure a permanent place in Man U’s multi-talented first team he will prove to be more than good enough at Championship level.

Photo: Action Images

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