Leeds’ next emerging star?

Aapo Halme seems to be raising his stock in the Leeds ranks as he continues his development.

The Finnish youngster has received plaudits after another solid display for the under 23’s against Bolton this week.

The 20-year old was said to be both strong in defence along with being very capable on the ball; being able to bring the ball out of defence to make plays. Sound familiar?

The ability to play the ball will be compared to both Liam Cooper and Pontus Jansson who are being utilised by Marcelo Bielsa to complete his free attacking side. If Halme can continue his run in the team and stay in games, it may not be long before it becomes apparent that he’s a star in the making.

Halme is now building his fitness having suffered a long term injury last season after his January arrival, preventing him from being in the picture until the beginning of the youth season.

The defensive partnership between Halme and Oriol Diaz looks set to be a consistent feature in the Development squad and both players could soon be utilised by Bielsa to fill in any gaps in the first team squad.

With Halme now beginning to justify the £500k paid by Leeds in January; are there any other youngsters than justify Victor Orta’s youth recruitment move?

By Ryan Ingham