Leeds United manager Brian McDermott has revealed that the club are currently negotiating with Alex Mowatt over extending his contract at Elland Road.

The 18-year-old has emerged as one of the academy's brightest prospects in recent years and the former Reading boss confirms that the club are in the process of offering the starlet a new long-term deal.

"We are trying to sort out his contract as we speak at this moment in time so it is good news for everyone," he told the club's official website.

Mowatt came close to opening his account with the Yorkshire club in the 2-1 victory over Middlesbrough on Saturday.

McDermott is convinced that it is only a matter of time before the youngster proves his goalscoring potential.

"I thought he was unfortunate not to score a goal on Saturday. He has got goals in his locker, I have absolutely no doubt about that," he added.

"Ross [McCormack] can score from free kicks but so will Alex. I've seen him do it in training and for the younger teams."

Leeds, who climbed to sixth in the Championship with the win over Boro, travel to Ewood Park for a clash with Blackburn Rovers on Saturday.