Leeds United are pleased to announce Joe Richards has signed his first professional contract with the club.

The versatile defender has put pen to paper on a one-year deal, tying his future to Elland Road until 2025.

The 18-year-old featured in every minute of the Whites’ FA Youth Cup journey last season, as Rob Etherington’s side reached the final at the Etihad Stadium.

Capable of playing at full-back or in a more advanced role on the wing, Richards also made a handful of appearances for Scott Gardner’s Under-21s team, scoring against Fulham in just his fourth Premier League 2 outing.

The club would like to congratulate Joe on signing his first professional contract and we look forward to seeing his development at Thorp Arch.