Battle for Sonny Perkins hots up as Leeds United, Aston Villa enter into talks

Leeds United and Aston Villa are battling it out to sign West Ham youngster Sonny Perkins, claims a well-respected source.

Both Premier League clubs have opened talks with the highly-rated attacker, according to Fabrizio Romano.

The 18-year-old has impressed for West Ham’s under-23s this season with 12 goals. A regular for the David Moyes’ development squad, Perkins has been attracting the interest of a number of Premier League rivals.

He made his full professional debut in the Europa League against Dynamo Zagreb in December and appeared as a late substitute against Leeds. And Leeds are one of the teams, along with Villa who want to sign the England Under-18 star.

Both clubs are keen on Perkins as they look to hoover up the best talent for their respective Under-23 sides.

David Moyes may well be prepared to let Perkins leave this summer. The player, who is out of contract at the end of the month, is said to be looking for a significant pay rise.

Leeds and Aston Villa have opened talks to sign promising forward Sonny Perkins. #transfers

Perkins has made 3 appearances for West Ham. Both clubs want to sign him.

— Fabrizio Romano (@FabrizioRomano) June 9, 2022

Perkins’ agent is in talks with the club, but as yet there has been no common ground over a new deal. That has led to rival interest in the player, with West Ham due compensation should Perkins leave due to his age.

The Hammers are looking for cover for Michail Antonio and it’s not thought Perkins is ready for the top flight.

Instead West Ham are looking at Chelsea loan striker Armando Broja.

Broja was on loan at Southampton last season, but Chelsea could cash in on the 20-year-old this summer.

The Daily Mail claims Moyes has registered his interest in the Albania