Leeds United youngster Aidan White has signed a first professional contract with the club.

The 17-year-old has signed a pro contract until 2012 and is looking forward to developing his career as a Leeds United player.

"I'm delighted to sign," said Aidy, who first joined the club as an eight-year-old schoolboy.

After eight years as a schoolboy with the Academy, Aidy joined on a scholarship last summer and was thrust into the first team as early as August when he made his debut against Crystal Palace in the Carling Cup.

Aidy has made nine senior appearances this season and he said: "Things have happened really quickly, and hopefully I can go on from here.

"There's a few lads who have come through the Academy who are doing fantastically well. Hopefully I can push on as well, get better, and improve as a player."

It was United boss Gary McAllister who handed the teenager his club debut, and the manager was delighted to secure his signature on a first professional contract.

"We're really pleased," said the manager. "Aidy is another young player who is learning his trade with the Academy who has a great future ahead of him.

"He got his opportunity earlier in the season and he did well. We're pleased with his development and the progress he is making.

"It's great to see so many young players coming through the ranks from the Academy here, and it's a real credit to the club and is good for the future."

Aidy, who is likely to provide added experience to the under-18s in the FA Youth Cup against Liverpool at Elland Road on Tuesday, follows in the footsteps of fellow teenager Fabian Delph, who signed a new four-year contract earlier in the season.