•  Leeds United giving young talent like Cotcher a chance to prove himself amid competition from top clubs.
•  Cotcher’s versatility as a forward and success at Sunderland’s youth level makes him an attractive prospect.
•  Sunderland could receive compensation if Cotcher secures a contract with a new club, highlighting their role in his development.

Mason Cotcher, a young forward, is on trial at Leeds United, who may extend a contract offer to him.

Mason Crotcher’s career so far

It’s highly likely that most Whites fans will be unaware of the 17-year-old, but he does have a good reputation in the game at youth level, having impressed with Sunderland over the years.

Cotcher is primarily a striker, but he can also occupy a wide forward position, and he registered ten goal involvements in 19 games for the Black Cats’ U18 side last season.

In an attempt to keep the player on Wearside, Tony Mowbray, the manager at the Stadium of Light at the time, had even selected Cotcher for an FA Cup match.

But the youth and the club were unable to come to an agreement, and he left in the summer, searching for a new team.

Cotcher is believed to have been seen by Manchester United, Brighton, Rangers,

and Arsenal during his time there, so it’s not for lack of interest.

Leeds United take Mason Cotcher on trial

Now though, it’s Leeds who are taking a closer look at Cotcher, as the Sunderland Echo revealed that he has been spending time at Thorp Arch as he looks to earn a contract, and he scored the winner against the Black Cats during a recent fixture.

“Former Sunderland youth teamer Mason Cotcher played for Leeds United’s under-18s on trial recently – and scored against his old team.

“Sunderland did try to keep hold of Cotcher but were unsuccessful in their attempts with the player heading to

Manchester United on trial during January before moving on to Leeds United.

Cotcher started and scored the only goal of the game as Leeds under-18s defeated

Sunderland 1-0 in the Premier League under-18 north competition.”

Leeds continue to focus on youth

Naturally, Cotcher wouldn’t be added with the intention of starting for the first team right away, but this would carry on Leeds’ recent trend of developing their youth teams.

Crysencio Summerville, who signed as a teenager from Feyenoord and is now an important member of the first squad, is arguably the best success story of this. His worth has improved significantly since he arrived.

This shows there will be a pathway to the first team at Elland Road, which makes them an attractive option for players, although that could be harder if they are promoted to the Premier League this season, which looks a real possibility.