Cardiff looking to tie down rising star Lawlor with extended deal

RISING Cardiff City star Dylan Lawlor is in “active talks” with the club over extending his current deal, head coach Brian Barry-Murphy has confirmed.

- GLEN WILLIAMS Football Writer

The 19-year-old has emerged as a top talent at first-team level, after being a promising prospect within the youth setup for a number of years.

Craig Bellamy even recognised the player’s ability with a call-up to Wales’ senior camp over the summer, before Lawlor established himself as a starting League One centre-back under Barry-Murphy.

After a tricky test on the opening day against Peterborough United, the Caerphilly product seems to be improving week on week.

The teenager, who has captained Wales at age-grade level, slots in seamlessly under Barry-Murphy, showcasing silky passing at the heart of the Bluebirds defence, which were on show once again in the win over Wimbledon on Tuesday evening.

There will be physical battles that lie ahead, and that seems his biggest challenge to date, but sources have spoken with real excitement with regards to the centre-back’s future and where his career trajectory potentially points to.

Cardiff triggered a year’s option on his deal, meaning his current contract expires in June 2026.

It means he is free to talk to foreign clubs from January as things stand.