Leeds United confirm striker exit with January return possible after Thorp Arch impression — YEP 17/10/24
By Joe Donnohue
Leeds United Under-21s attacker Luca Thomas has joined
National League side York City on a short-term loan deal.
The 20-year-old forward has scored nine goals in seven
appearances for the U21s this season and has attracted the interest of the
local, fifth-tier club who are seeking a return to the Football League for the
first time since 2016.
Thomas is expected to feature at the LNER Community Stadium,
a ground he is already more than familiar with having played there with Leeds'
U21s, due to injuries to boss Adam Hinshelwood's alternate attacking options.
The Leeds youngster joins the Minstermen on a short-term
loan deal which should ensure the club can send Thomas on loan to a Football
League club in January if his progress at York indicates he'd be better tested
at a higher level.
A statement by Leeds United on Thursday afternoon read:
"The Minstermen’s LNER Community Stadium has already proven to be a happy
hunting ground for the 20-year-old so far this term, where he has scored on
both appearances for the U21s.
"The club would like to wish Luca well during his time
with York and we look forward to seeing his further development whilst away
from the club."
Thomas has made an impression at Thorp Arch throughout 2024
and was temporarily promoted to the senior squad over the summer, joining up
with Daniel Farke's first-team squad in pre-season, before returning to the U21
setup once the season had commenced.
York currently sit third in the National League and could
involve Thomas this weekend in their fixture with Ebbsfleet United.