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Ipswich Town transfer rumours: Blues reportedly want West Brom striker Jonathan Leko on loan

West Bromwich Albion's Jonathan Leko. Photo: PA PA Archive/PA Images

Ipswich Town are keen on bringing in West Brom’s teenage winger Jonathan Leko on loan, according to the Wolverhampton Express and Star.

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The fleet-footed 18-year-old has made three starts and 11 substitute appearances in the Premier League and is rated as a top prospect at the West Midlands club.

Born in the Democratic Republic of Congo, he moved to England at the age of eight, attended school directly opposite the Hawthorns and joined the club’s academy aged 11.

A regular for the West Brom Under-21 side at the age of 15, he made his senior club debut at the age of 16, coming on as a sub in a 3-0 League Cup defeat at Norwich City.

The 6ft tall front man, who plays on the right wing but can also operate up top, is known for his pace and physicality. He has played alongside Town youngsters Andre Dozzell, Nick Hayes and Ben Morris with the England U17s and U18s over the last couple of seasons.

Contracted to West Brom until the summer of 2019, Leko has previously been mentioned in connection with the likes of Chelsea and Manchester City.

West Brom academy coach Mark Harrison has said: “He’s such a humble kid, he really is. His feet are on the ground.

“He’s willing to learn and improve and sometimes he can be quite harsh on himself. He’s got a really good mentality. When he plays for England he’s asking me how I think he has done.

“With his ability, it’s up to us to ensure we keep his feet on the floor. In terms of potential he’s got as much potential as Saido (Berahino).”

He added: “Yes he played a few games but it’s a bit different trying to put 10 or 12 games together. There’s the tempo, the speed of it, but also the mental side of it. You’re under pressure every game.

“Although we do try to recreate that form of pressure, it’s hard to, apart from when the boys go out on loan. It’s like taking a penalty in the World Cup final, you can practice all you want but nothing compares to the real thing.”

A piece published by the Express & Star last June read: “The jinking winger provided a much-needed silver lining at the end of a long season clouded by too many drab games.

“His fearless football lifted the mood at the Hawthorns, but the arrogant way he skips past players on the pitch is in complete contrast to his humble and hard-working nature off it.”