Scout Report – Mallik Wilks
Mallik Wilks, who is currently on loan at League Two outfit Accrington Stanley, has emerged as a target for Everton. The teenage sensation is a part of Leeds United, and is widely touted as one of the most exciting young attacking talents. Wilks scored the winner in his most recent match against Chesterfield, after coming off the substitutes’ bench to great impact.
The 18-year-old already has two goals to his name for Stanley, and he appears to be in a much better position at the club, since his move away from Leeds. However, with a Premier League club linked, the youngster could be interested in a move.
History
Born in Leeds, England, Wilks started his career at Leeds United and graduated through the academy. He progressed through the ranks quite rapidly under the then head coach Garry Monk. With Wilks in impressive form for Leeds’ Under 23 and youth sides, Wilks was called up to the first team squad.
In August of this year, Wilks signed a new four-year contract with Leeds United but was also loaned out to Accrington Stanley. His loan period runs until January, which is prompting interest from a string of clubs. Wilks has scored three goals in 15 appearances for Accrington this term, and is continuing to go from strength-to-strength.
Playing Style
A naturally attacking striker, Wilks is adept at finding ways to weave through even the toughest of opposition defences. He is strong at dribbling, and is quite good at converting chances into goals. He possesses enough speed to trouble his opponents, and loves getting forward to get his name on the score sheet.
He is weak aerially, but besides that, Wilks has no significant weaknesses – which is quite impressive for a player so young.
Wilks’ Future
Everton believe Wilks is destined for a big future in the game, and a move for the youngster will make sense. With them keen on improving their performances in the Premier League so far, they could benefit from signing a forward like Wilks. They have been missing a quality forward ever since Romelu Lukaku departed to Manchester United, and the Leeds youngster could prove to be a viable long-term option.
However, it remains to be seen if Leeds are willing to sell him since Wilks is still regarded very highly by the club’s coaching staff, who will be keeping a keen eye on his progress at League Two level. Wilks may have made just one senior appearance for the Whites to date, but his performances for Stanley are surely helping to raise his reputation.