Leeds United are reportedly interested in Bristol Rovers’ 17-year-old wonderkid Kofi Shaw, as Premier League clubs monitor the young midfielder’s progress
Leeds, Aston Villa, and Southampton have all been linked with The Gas’ teenage star Shaw, who made his senior debut for the League One club last April. Shaw, a highly-rated midfielder, has featured regularly in Rovers’ first-team squad this season and has reportedly caught the eye of clubs higher up the English football pyramid. The Sun (via Birmingham Live) claims that Leeds are among the teams keeping a close watch on the youngster, who has impressed in both cup and league outings.
Bristol Rovers manager Matt Taylor has been effusive in his praise for Shaw, following a standout performance in a 3-3 draw against Tottenham Hotspur U21s in the EFL Trophy, during which Shaw scored a crucial goal. Shaw has also played in the EFL Cup against Cardiff City and featured in League One matches against Barnsley and Peterborough, starting and playing 60 minutes in the latter, a 3-2 defeat.
“I thought he was our best player,” Taylor told Bristol Live after the draw with Spurs U21s. “I thought he was the shining light from start to finish. His performance really stood for something tonight. From start to finish, I thought he was our best player, so I’m pleased that he’s had a good night.”
Taylor remains mindful of Shaw’s age and the need to manage his development carefully: “We are still conscious that he is only 17, so you have to manage him a little bit, and he’s running as hard as he possibly can. Now we want to keep him in and around the first team and see if we can get him some game time and then see how he plays in a Rotherham or Stockport away or something like that.”
Leeds United has a track record of bringing young talents through, and Shaw could be seen as a valuable addition to their youth system. With Premier League sides circling, Bristol Rovers may face a challenge in keeping hold of the teenager.
Writer’s View
For Leeds United, the potential signing of Kofi Shaw would fit into their long-term strategy of developing young players with high potential. Shaw’s experience in League One at such a young age makes him an attractive prospect, especially with his ability to perform against strong opposition. Leeds have a rich history of promoting youth, and Shaw could be a great addition to the club’s academy, offering versatility and promise in midfield.
However, Bristol Rovers will be reluctant to let go of Shaw so soon. He’s already making waves in the first team, and with careful development, he could become a key figure for the Gas in the future. If Leeds—or any other club—move for Shaw, Rovers will need to ensure they get a fair deal, potentially including loan-back clauses to aid in his development while benefiting from his talent for a little longer.
Editor In Chief