Reuben Lopata-White has signed his first professional contract with Leeds United, two months after playing a significant role in the FA Youth Cup final.
Leeds United have agreed to a maiden professional contract with one of last season’s FA Youth Cup winners. Reuben Lopata-White has signed a three-year contract with the Whites, just two months after playing a major role in the under-18s’ May final defence.
The 18-year-old played every minute of that renowned competition from the fifth round onwards, impressing with his committed heading and tackling at centre-back. Lopata-White also impressed Scott Gardner’s under-21s, and United are looking to sign him to his first professional contract as he continues to improve.
According to a club statement, “Leeds United is pleased to announce that Reuben Lopata-White has signed his first professional contract with the club.” After impressing for the Whites’ under-18 and under-21 teams last season, the defender has signed a three-year contract, committing his career to Elland Road until 2027.
“The 18-year-old starred for Rob Etherington’s youth team as they advanced to the FA Youth Cup final, playing every minute after the fifth round. The defender also made his debut for Scott Gardner’s under-21s last season, making four Premier League 2 starts near the end of the season and scoring his first goal in a 3-0 home win over Derby County.
“Everyone at Leeds United would like to congratulate Reuben on signing his first professional contract with the club and we look forward to seeing his development at Thorp Arch.”
Several contract deals with club academy players are expected to be announced in the coming days.
