The club has moved to secure highly-rated teenage midfielder Alex Mowatt on a long-term contract.

The Doncaster-born Academy graduate, who is currently establishing himself in the first team, has signed a new three-and-a-half-year contract with the club.

United managing director David Haigh said: “We’re delighted we’ve agreed a new contract with Alex. He has been at the club most of his life, and his development and progress is a testament to the work of the club’s Academy.  The development of our own players is something we see as vitally important, and we look forward to Alex being a part of our future here.”

Mowatt, who skippered the club’s Under-18s last season, has made 11 appearances so far this term and also received a call-up for the England Under-19 squad.

Manager Brian McDermott said: “Everyone at Leeds United is delighted that he has committed his long-term future to us. Playing regular football as an 18-year-old in the Championship tells you exactly what we think of him.”

The young midfielder paid tribute to the club’s Academy and he said: “I’m really pleased to have signed. I’ve been at the club since I was six and this is where I want to play my football. This season has gone really, really well so far, and I just want to keep working hard, keep improving, and play my part in helping Leeds United get where we want to be.”