Godwin ObajeWho is Jayden Lienou? Meet Leeds United’s New Technically Gifted Starlet from Manchester City
Leeds United have continued their ambitious summer recruitment drive by adding another exciting talent to their ranks — teenage prospect Jayden Lienou from Manchester City.
While much of the focus at Elland Road has understandably been on bolstering Daniel Farke’s senior squad ahead of a demanding return to Premier League life, the club’s efforts to secure its long-term future have also been evident. Alongside first-team arrivals like Lukas Nmecha, Jaka Bijol, Sebastiaan Bornauw and Gabriel Gudmundsson, Leeds have been quietly strengthening their academy — and Lienou is the latest promising addition.
The 17-year-old full-back arrives at Leeds after spending time in the youth systems of both Everton and Manchester City. He first joined City in 2024 and has quickly built a reputation as a composed, technically intelligent player, comfortable on the ball and eager to drive forward from defence.
Leeds’ academy boss Scott Gardner has seen a number of talented young players released this summer, and he has been proactive in reshaping the youth squad. The free transfer of Louis Enahoro-Marcus from Liverpool was the first step, and now the signing of Lienou marks another important move.
Described by coaches as “technically talented,” Lienou has drawn praise for his calmness in possession and his willingness to get involved in attacking play, traits that align well with Leeds’ academy philosophy.
While the club is preparing for a fiercely competitive campaign in the top flight, these developmental signings show a clear strategy from the Elland Road hierarchy: build a squad for the present, but invest in the stars of tomorrow.
Lienou joins a growing group of prospects hoping to break into the first team over the coming seasons. With Leeds known for giving young players opportunities — and under a manager like Farke, who has a track record of developing youth — the pathway is clearly there.
Although he is unlikely to feature in Premier League action this season, Lienou will be monitored closely in Leeds’ youth setups, with the potential to train with the senior side if he impresses.
Alongside Harry Gray and other local talents who have recently signed scholarship terms with the Whites, Lienou represents another step forward in the club’s wider strategy of combining academy development with smart recruitment from elite academies across the country.
Leeds’ recruitment this summer, both senior and youth, speaks to a club re-establishing its foundations after promotion. And while the likes of Nmecha and Bornauw will dominate the headlines, the capture of Lienou is just as important for the club’s long-term vision.
As one Leeds insider put it, “These aren’t just academy signings — they’re investments in the club’s future identity.”
With Lienou now in West Yorkshire, fans can expect to see more of this highly rated teenager in the months and years to come.
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Godwin Obaje
