‘It's such a shame’ - McGilligan reacts to rumour involving Leeds youngster

Journalist Conor McGilligan has claimed that Leeds United youngster Jamie Shackleton could leave this summer amid recent exit links.

According to a recent report by Football Insider, the midfielder could be heading to the Championship next season to join Reading on loan.

The same report claims a number of other clubs have also been considering a move for the 22-year-old. With that in mind, McGilligan has said that a switch to the Championship would be ‘excellent’ for Shackleton.

However, the journalist did say that he think a permanent exit could be best for the player at this stage of his career, even though it would be a shame as the academy product ‘bleeds Leeds United‘.

While speaking on the One Leeds Fan YouTube channel, McGilligan said (1:44): “He is 22 years of age now and he needs to get some first team football. He really does and I think the Championship will be an excellent move for Jamie Shackleton.

“Would I go a loan? Or would I go permanent? I’d probably go permanent because if Leeds are looking at that upward trajectory, if Leeds are looking at a consistent top ten, top eight finish, I don’t see where Jamie Shackleton gets in ever again – even as sort of part of the squad, if you’re looking to bulk that up with European talent.

“So it’s a difficult one, it’s a really difficult one. It’s such a shame because obviously he’s a product of the academy. You can tell he bleeds Leeds United as well.”

TIF thoughts on Jamie Shackleton and Leeds…

Last season, Shackleton only made seven starts in the Premier League. While he is still fairly young, the 22-year-old may feel as though he needs more regular game time as he heads into the next stage of his development. 

Having made nearly 100 appearances for the Whites –