Leeds defender Tom Lees is in demand after a successful season on loan at Bury, where he has helped them gain promotion to League One.

United manager Simon Grayson revealed that a number of clubs had asked about the 20-year-old, who is highly rated by the Elland Road coaching staff.

“Last year Tom went on loan to Accrington, came back in pre-season and did well for us,” said Grayson.

“We felt going out on loan again would benefit him as a footballer and as a person. He has had a great year at Bury, scoring goals in a successful team.

“We have monitored him a lot and he has done really well. He will come back to us again and play in our pre-season games.

“If we feel he is good enough to play in the Championship, if that is where we will be playing, we will have no problem with that. If we feel he is falling a bit short, he will go out on loan somewhere again.

“There are plenty of clubs who would like to take him. They have been ringing me about his availability, which is testimony to his ability.

“For such a young kid, he will have nearly 100 games under his belt, which is great experience for him.”

Lees has yet to make a first-team appearance for Leeds, whereas 19-year-old left back or winger Aidy White had turned out 16 times for United before joining Oldham on loan in January.

Leeds-born White, whose early career has been hampered by injuries, is also well thought of at Elland Road and Grayson said: “Aidy has benefited from having half a season at Oldham.

“Sometimes players who are not getting a game are better going out somewhere, playing and improving their fitness. I am by no means dismissing Tom or Aidy because we have high hopes for both of them.”

Meanwhile, Leeds have asked for a personal hearing after pleading guilty to a Football Association charge of failing to control their players against Burnley a week ago. The Clarets face the same charge.