Leeds ramp up interest in sensational Barcelona youngster ahead of potential free transfer this summer
Barcelona wonderkid Illias Akhomach is considered to be one of the hottest prospects in Europe and Leeds United reportedly want to bring him to Elland Road this summer.
The 18-year-old made three senior appearances for the Catalans last season, but contract disagreements have restricted his involvement in Xavi’s team this term.
Touted to have unbelievable potential, the Whites could make a fantastic long-term investment if they can seal a deal for Akhomach.
According to ESPN, Leeds have been scouting the youngster for some time and are now ready to table an offer for his services.
Akhomach will become a free agent in June after no agreement has been reached between him and Barcelona over an extension.
The Catalans are believed to be open to keeping him, but do not want to match the wage demands tabled by his entourage.
Leeds are reportedly willing to meet his demands, however, so a sensational switch to Elland Road is now looking increasingly likely.
Akhomach has made 24 appearances for the Barca youth team this season, scoring two goals in the process.
Operating generally as a right or left winger, the Spaniard is quick, skilful and has a great eye for a pass.
If he can reach his sky-high potential, Akhomach could prove to be an excellent, bargain signing for Leeds. However, AC Milan are also believed to be interested in him, so they do face competition.
Struggling Leeds eye youth for rebuild
The Whites are struggling massively at the moment, currently sitting in 19th place in the Premier League table after winning just four of their 23 opening matches.
They are also managerless, as they are yet to replace the recently sacked Jesse Marsch, with Michael Skubala taking temporary charge of the Yorkshire club.
However, one Sky Sports pundit thinks that by Saturday, they will have a new manager at the helm, with Javi Garcia currently looking like the big favourite.
Despite this, the Whites still have a big challenge on their hands to avoid dropping back into the Championship, after narrowly avoiding relegation last season.
With that in mind, it seems unlikely that Akhomach would opt to head to Elland Road instead of AC Milan if they do finish in the bottom three.
There is also still a chance that the wonderkid could still renew his deal at the Camp Nou, so there isn’t any guarantee he’ll leave Barca at all, although it looks likely at this stage.
Bringing in young players with high potential would be a smart approach for Leeds, though, from a financial point of view, as they are more likely to make a profit down the line.
They have already brought in the likes of Wilfried Gnonto (18), Georginio Rutter (20) and Brendan Aaronson (21) this season, so that is clearly the approach they’re going for with transfers.
But, at this point, Akhomach’s future remains in doubt, but Leeds are definitely very interested in pursuing a summer deal.
