David Artell has confirmed Grimsby Town‘s interest in Luton Town youngster Jayden Luker via a post-match interview with BBC Humberside.
Enjoying his first steps into senior football in the National League with Woking last season, midfielder Luker appears to be set for a move further up the football pyramid, with David Artell confirming the Lincolnshire club’s interest in the youngster
The 19-year-old joined the Cardinals in January, making 17 appearances for the Surrey club, scoring on two occasions as the club secured survival in the fifth tier. He also made a handful of appearances in Rob Edwards’ matchday squads in the first half of the Premier League season.
Signing his first professional deal with the Hatters in March 2023, Luker has been close to the first team having travelled to Slovenia for the Championship club’s pre-season camp and playing 90 minutes in their 3-1 defeat against Port Vale on Tuesday.
David Artell has been quick to state that he expects the player to be playing higher than the Mariners’ current level next year, saying that the club will have done “exceptionally well” to secure his services.
When asked about the 19-year-old following a 2-2 friendly draw with Rotherham United, the Grimsby chief responded:
“That’s one of the club’s we’ve spoken about and one of the players we’ve spoken about.
“I think we’ll do exceptionally well if he ends up here, as he’s such a good player. I would imagine he’ll go higher, but we’ve asked and he’s another one that we’re waiting for Luton to get back to us.
We want to bring in good players to this club that will improve us, we’re hopeful by the end of the week we might have one or two in.”
Grimsby have appeared light on options in the middle of the park throughout pre-season, with George McEachran the club’s only acquisition in that department and experienced ball-winner Curtis Thompson confirmed to be out for the first 10 weeks of the season.
Writer’s View
Jayden Luker has rave reviews from Woking and Luton perspectives. Despite his age, there is definitely quality that could be of use at the level. Additonally, it is an area Grimsby are particularly light in so movement would not be surprising between now and the opening weekend.
Also, David Artell has an excellent and proven track record with developing young talent – as shown during his time at Crewe Alexandra, this could be an excellent move for all parties involved.
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