OPINION
Leeds United should have major cause for concern about losing left-back Tom Pearce after it was reported that Everton are set to let Leighton Baines leave in the summer transfer window.
The Sun has reported that Baines, 33, is due to jet out to California with LA Galaxy and LAFC interested in signing the former England left-back after 11 years at Goodison Park.
It is understood that Everton are still keen on re-signing Leeds defender Pearce, 20, in the coming months, and with Baines looking set to leave, that could mean that the Premier League club will step up their pursuit of the Whites breakthrough star.
Pearce made five appearances for United in the back-end of the Championship season and even scored his first senior goal in a Yorkshire derby win over Barnsley.
He impressed manager Paul Heckingbottom and the Elland Road support, however his contract is due to expire next month meaning that he could return to Goodison Park on a free transfer.
Leeds confirmed via their official website on Friday that Pearce is among three young players to have been offered a new deal, but the chance to move to the Premier League may be too good to refuse for the youngster.
With the latest development from Goodison claiming that Baines is heading for the exit on a free transfer, Everton are definitely going to be in need of a new left-back and that could ultimately spell the end for Peace at Leeds.