Leyton Orient secure Sonny Perkins on season-long loan from Leeds United

Leyton Orient have announced the signing of forward Sonny Perkins on a season-long loan from Leeds United.

The 20-year-old, who started his football journey at Leyton Orient Academy, joins the O's ahead of the 2024/25 campaign.

Perkins began his professional career at West Ham United, joining their under-15 team in 2019. At just 17, he made his senior debut in a UEFA Europa League match against Rapid Wien and later his Premier League debut against Leeds United.

Since moving to Leeds in 2022, Perkins has impressed in the under-21 side and scored his first professional goal against Cardiff City in the FA Cup. He spent the first half of last season on loan at Oxford United before returning to Leeds in January.

On returning to Leyton Orient, Perkins expressed his excitement: "It's really special to be back. I've been here so many times in the stands and as a ballboy, and I'm looking forward to getting out on the pitch in front of the fans for the first time. Having people who have known me for a long time made the decision easier to come back here."

Perkins, who has scored twelve goals in 20 appearances for England youth sides, aims to contribute significantly to the O's this season.

"I want to help the club push forward as much as possible. I'd love to bring energy and hope to the club and see us push for as good of a season as we can do," he said.

Leyton Orient manager Richie Wellens is pleased with the addition of Perkins to his squad.

"Sonny has a superb amount of natural ability, and we're really pleased to see him join us here at Leyton Orient. He is highly-rated by Leeds, and we're excited to see what he can do for us going forwards," Wellens stated.

"He's a really versatile player, who can play as a centre forward or in the ten role. He's scored a really impressive amount of goals for both Leeds and West Ham's U21 sides, and we believe that he is ready to make that step up to senior football now."