Former Leeds United academy player Stuart McKinstry is out of contract at Queen’s Park at the end of the campaign and is being watched by League One strugglers Carlisle United, according to reports.
The Scottish playmaker moved to Thorp Arch in 2019, having spent years learning his trade within Motherwell’s ranks. However, after merely two appearances for the Whites’, the Yorkshire club allowed McKinstry’s contract to expire at the end of the 2022/23 campaign following a loan spell back with the Steelmen.
Since leaving Leeds United, McKinstry joined Scottish Championship side Queen’s Park back in November as a free agent. The Spiders fought for promotion to the Premiership last season, eventually finishing five points short of league champions Dundee, but are locked in a relegation scrap this time around.
Two in two 🧡@StuartMckin27 pic.twitter.com/b1GmlHlK1a
— Motherwell FC (@MotherwellFC) January 15, 2023
Nevertheless, McKinstry has had a fine campaign with the second-tier outfit but with his contract expiring at the end of the season, Queen’s Park are struggling to keep hold of the 21-year-old.
According to a report from the Daily Record, League One club Carlisle are keeping tabs on McKinstry’s situation in Hampden. The outlet are claiming that Paul Simpson’s side have had the attacking midfielder on their radar since his time at Elland Road.
The Cumbrians have been the worst team in England’s third division this season and are currently 16 points adrift of safety, having picked up merely one win in their previous 12 league outings. With relegation all but mathematically confirmed, Carlisle could be looking at McKinstry as a player who could excel in League Two ahead of next season.
Writer’s View
McKinstry has played at the very highest level of English football, having made his Premier League debut for Leeds United back in November 2021 under the legendary Marcelo Bielsa, and has been a key player for Queens Park in recent weeks.
There is still a player with great potential there which could be an excellent fit for Carlisle, particularly since he would be coming to Brunton Park on a free transfer. If he does well, the Cumbrians can sell him for a profit in a few seasons.
Deputy Head of Writing
