Leeds Will Keep Their Aaron

Last updated : 15 October 2003 By Kevin Markey

The Whites would like to secure their latest teen prospect on a long-term deal, but they have been prevented by new FA red tape.

Lennon, 16, was poised to sign a deal on his 17th birthday next April, but he has to wait until 2005, because Premier League rules now state a player has to serve his scholarship until his 18th birthday before he can sign professionally.

The rules were brought in before up-coming stars likes Wayne Rooney and James Milner were handed lucrative deals.

Aaron was, however, the youngest player ever to sign a boot deal with Adidas, and is the youngest player ever to appear in the Premiership.

He has already agreed terms on a contract with Leeds and will now be forced to wait 18 months before committing his future totally to the club.