Leeds could be facing the loss of one of their brightest talents as 16-year-old midfield prodigy Samuel Alker attracts interest from Bundesliga giants Borussia Dortmund and Bayer Leverkusen. The England U17 international has impressed at U18 level, but with professional terms unsigned, top European clubs are circling, offering a tempting pathway to first-team football abroad.
Samuel Alker on the radar of top European clubs
Leeds' academy has produced countless talents, but Alker is making waves beyond Yorkshire. According to the Daily Mail, the 16-year-old attacking midfielder has become a mainstay at U18 level, known for his technical skill, vision, and creativity as a number 10. Already capped by England at youth level, Alker’s performances have caught the eye of scouts from Bundesliga clubs, Dortmund and Leverkusen, signaling potential challenges for the Whites in retaining him.
The youngster’s ability to dictate play, find space, and execute incisive passes has made him one of Leeds' most exciting prospects. While still only 16, Alker shows maturity beyond his years, prompting Bundesliga clubs to monitor his development closely, preparing for a possible move once he reaches eligibility at 18.
AdvertisementGetty Images SportContract talks and foreign interest in Alker
Leeds have moved quickly to secure their starlet, offering Alker professional terms. However, he has yet to sign, and with his 17th birthday not until March, European clubs are aware of a window to attract him abroad. Dortmund and Leverkusen are particularly alert, and have been drawn to his technical ability.
Alker’s statistical footprint is impressive for his age. During the 2024-25 season, he played six matches for Leeds U18, scoring one goal and providing two assists in approximately 343 minutes of football. His performances showed exceptional promise further highlighting his influence on the team. In the 2025-26 season, he has already shown strong contributions in limited minutes, with continued growing involvement in playmaking. Wearing primarily the number 10 shirt, Alker demonstrates excellent positional awareness, passing accuracy, and vision, often dictating the tempo of matches.
As an England U17 international, his performances on the youth stage have reinforced his status as one of the country’s most promising midfielders. Leeds now face the challenge of translating these performances into a contract that ensures he remains at Elland Road.
Can Alker get a first-team opportunity at Leeds?
Alker isn’t the only Leeds youth star making headlines. Harry Gray recently signed his first professional contract, continuing a family tradition at the club. Alker himself comes from a deep footballing lineage, with his grandfather Frank, great uncle Eddie, father Andy, and brother Archie all having ties to Leeds.
The challenge for these young players is the pathway to the senior team. Bundesliga clubs frequently offer earlier first-team exposure than is typical in the Premier League. Still, coach Daniel Farke could elevate Alker if an injury crisis hits. Such a move would provide a crucial confidence boost and fast-track his experience, especially since players like Gray have already featured for Leeds' senior side.
AFPLeeds' immediate challenges and future hopes
While the club navigates Alker’s future, head coach Farke faces urgent squad issues ahead of the Premier League clash with West Ham. Ethan Ampadu and vice-captain Pascal Struijk are battling illness, while Noah Okafor and Wilfried Gnonto recover from an adductor injury and hernia surgery.
Alker’s progression and potential senior breakthrough remain central to Leeds' plans. With his contract still unsigned until 2027, the club must balance nurturing talent with defending against European suitors. For fans and staff alike, the hope is that Alker can develop into a first-team regular while remaining loyal to Leeds, maintaining the academy’s proud tradition of producing top-level footballers.
