Leeds United are reportedly closing in on the signing of Barcelona winger Ilias Akhomach.
During his time in the academy ranks at the Catalan giants, Akhomach has been tipped to eventually become an established member of the first-team squad.
That remained the case during 2021-22 as the teenager was provided with three starts soon after the arrival of Xavi when he was still 17 years of age.
However, since featuring for 170 minutes across that three-game period between November and January, Akhomach has not made any further outings.
Furthermore, the prospect has not been selected in a single squad for a La Liga fixture for 14 months, and that has seemingly proven to be pivotal with regards to the next phase of his career.
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According to reports in Spain, Akhomach has opted against renewing his contract past the end of the current campaign.
The primary reason for Akhomach not being handed more opportunities in Xavi's first-team squad is allegedly due to a reluctance to pen fresh terms at Camp Nou.
Instead, it is claimed that Leeds have moved swiftly to enter negotiations with Akhomach and his representatives to tie up a deal as soon as possible.
The report suggests that a transfer must be finalised by the end of March and it is currently on course to fulfil that criteria.
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That is despite it is being said that AC Milan, Sevilla and Club Brugge have also been open to signing the Spain Under-19 international.
Leeds, who are currently battling to remain in the Premier League, have a strong track record when it comes to developing younger talent and promoting them to the first team.
In recent seasons, the likes of Crysencio Summerville and Wilfried Gnonto have arrived as teenagers to become important players at Elland Road.
While Akhomach is allegedly eager to join a top-flight club, it is suggested that relegation to the Championship would not necessarily hinder a deal.
Darren Plant
