Signed as a precocious teenager with ample talent to go with his ambition, Ian Poveda was seen as the next line of stars at Leeds United. The English-Colombian has a unique sense of style on the pitch, and plays with a sense of intelligence that belies his youthful age. However, reports recently have suggested that Leeds are keen to bring in a new winger this summer – and it might mean that Poveda looks to make a clean break. Having enjoyed his role as backup to the first-team wide players, the arrival of another player – even with the likely exit of other wide options – would simply push Poveda further down the pecking order.

There are concerns about what this would mean for the future of the youngster, with his current role as third choice winger not being enough. With hopes of more regular time next year having acclimated to the top flight, though, Poveda might face the need to move on and find a new club instead. His impressive form off the bench has been clear for all to see, but it might not be enough to keep him as part of the regular squad rotation in 2021-22.

Names including Noa Lang and Khvicha Kvaratskhelia have been linked with the club in recent times. They all share a similar age and profile to Poveda, and would offer him even more direct competition. Even with the ageing legs of Pablo Hernandez, and the potential exit of Jack Harrison, it might be tough for Leeds to find space for Poveda in the first-team.

Despite his age, it is believed that he might already be edging towards the exit at Elland Road.

Why would Leeds United sell Ian Poveda?

While the club would no doubt keep the talented youngster, the player himself could push for an exit. Remember that this is a youngster who left Manchester City to find playing time at Leeds. If they cannot offer him more playing time, or at least a similar amount of playing time as was found this year, then the player would be well within his rights to expect more.

His lack of first-team opportunities in terms of starts is already believed to have caused some thoughts about moving on in the summer. The arrival of yet another winger to take his place in the team, though, would almost guarantee that Poveda would be quick to move on from the club.

He left City due to a lack of first-team opportunities. With his teenage years ticking on, Poveda might want to find a club that can make him a key part of the first XI. It’s something to think about for any young player, of course, but with the taste of first and second-tier action on a regular basis it is clear that Poveda has a lot of interest in finding first-team action.

Though fans would be gutted to lose such a talent, if the player decides he cannot wait for prolonged action then a parting of the ways might be the only option.