Highly-rated American striker Mike Grella has signed a permanent contract with Leeds United.

The young marksman had joined the club on a trial basis and made an immediate impact, scoring a hat-trick on his debut in the reserves, against Barnsley last week.

The 22-year-old was already being monitored by a number of English scouts and has attracted interest from a number of clubs in the Coca-Cola Championship.

The striker also had the option to link up with former United head coach John Carver at Toronto, but was keen to try his luck in Europe.

Mike, who has represented the USA at both under-18 and under-20 level, has signed an 18-month contract with United.

The striker put pen to paper on a snowy deadline day at Thorp Arch.