'First of several': Leeds journo says Orta now in 'advanced' in-house talks with 'unreal' player

Leeds United correspondent Graham Smyth has revealed that the club are in ‘advanced talks’ with Joe Gelhardt over a new deal.

The Whites brought Gelhardt to Elland Road back in 2020 from Wigan Athletic for just £900,000. Since then, the 20-year-old has gone from strength to strength at Thorp Arch, contributing to 24 goals in 28 games for the U23s. He also enjoyed a breakthrough year in the first team during the previous campaign, making 20 appearances.

Gelhardt played his part in helping Leeds avoid relegation with a dramatic late winner against Norwich and a sublime assist in stoppage time against Brighton, which resulted in Alan Hutton labelling the forward as ‘unreal’.

Smyth took to Twitter on Thursday evening to reveal that Leeds are in ‘advanced talks’ with Gelhardt over a new long-term deal.

The Yorkshire Evening Post reporter added that Gelhardt is set to be ‘the first of several to enter contract discussions’.

Gelhardt’s impressive displays didn’t just catch the eye at Elland Road, with the youngster recently nominated for the 2022 Golden Boy award.

His current deal has just two years left to run, so now is the perfect time for a well-earned extension. Gelhardt proved he can step up to the demands of the Premier League, so he could be in line to feature more regularly from the off as a result under Jesse Marsch.

Hopefully, talks can be finalised over the coming days and Leeds can announce a new deal next week, as Smyth states could happen.

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