Leeds United contract rejected by younger brother of former Golden Eaglets invitee

London-born Nigerian defender James Debayo is reportedly set to move on to pastures new in the summer transfer window.

Debayo was among the Leeds United players offered fresh terms following the club's promotion to the Premier League at the end of the 2024-2025 season.

According to Sky Sports UK, Debayo did not accept Leeds United's offer of a new deal as he wants to search for more first-team opportunities elsewhere.

James is the younger brother of Chelsea academy product Josh Debayo, who trained with the Golden Eaglets before the 2013 Fifa U17 World Cup, though he missed out on the final squad taken to the United Arab Emirates.

James Debayo is now a free agent and attracting interest from English and Belgian clubs.

The 20-year-old was not named in Leeds United's travelling squad to Stockholm, all but confirming that his time at the Premier League new boys has come to an end.

Last season, Debayo featured in 24 matchday squads in the Championship, making his league debut during a 4-3 victory over Swansea City on November 24.

He made his second senior appearance in February during an Emirates FA Cup clash against Millwall.

Debayo joined Leeds United on a scholarship deal in the summer of 2021 after turning down a new contract at Watford.

The centre-back has represented England's Young Lions at U15, U17 and U18 level.

Ifeanyi Emmanuel

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