Stoke City starlet set to sign new deal despite Leeds United links

 

Stoke City starlet set to sign new deal despite Leeds United links.

Leeds United have reportedly been dealt a blow in their pursuit of highly-rated Stoke City youngster Emre Tezgel, with the striker now poised to extend his stay at the bet365 Stadium.

According to a report from Mike McGrath of The Telegraph, Tezgel is close to putting pen to paper on a new long-term contract with the Potters. The 19-year-old has been the subject of growing interest following a breakout season in the Championship, where his pace, movement and finishing caught the eye of scouts across the division – not least those at Leeds United.

Leeds had been keeping close tabs on the teenage talent as they begin to reshape their squad for life in the Premier League. After securing promotion by winning the Championship title, the Yorkshire club are keen to add depth and youthful energy to their ranks. Tezgel, who has been compared to Harry Kane due to his intelligent link-up play and mature performances at a young age, was viewed as a player with huge potential to develop further under the guidance of manager Daniel Farke.

But Stoke City have acted swiftly to fend off potential suitors. A new deal for Tezgel is expected to be announced in the coming days, ensuring that the Potters retain one of their prized assets ahead of what they hope will be a more competitive campaign in 2025/26.

Tezgel has been with Stoke since the age of nine and is widely regarded as one of the club’s most exciting academy graduates in recent years. He made 28 Championship appearances last season, scoring six goals and providing three assists. Despite Stoke’s inconsistent form, Tezgel was a rare bright spark and is now seen as central to the club’s long-term ambitions under manager Steven Schumacher.

For Leeds United, the decision means they may have to look elsewhere as they seek to bolster their attacking options. The Whites are expected to be active in the summer transfer window, with several areas of the squad in need of strengthening to cope with the demands of Premier League football. A blend of experience and youth remains the priority, and while Tezgel may now be off the table, the club’s recruitment team are continuing to assess other rising stars across the EFL and abroad.

Leeds have already been linked with a number of attacking players, and although missing out on Tezgel will be a disappointment, it is unlikely to slow their momentum as they prepare for their top-flight return.

Tezgel’s decision to remain at Stoke is a show of faith in the project at the club and a reminder that the Potters are intent on building around their young talents. For Leeds, the search continues, but their Premier League ambitions remain firmly on course.

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