Ilias Akhomach is one of La Masia’s brightest stars in recent years and has been touted as the next big thing in the Blaugrana attack for a long time. He made three appearances for the first team at the tender age of 17 last season, and many thought it was a stepping stone to greater success.
However, the storyline since then has not been a bed of roses for Ilias. Contractual disagreements have restricted his involvement with the senior setup this term, and Xavi Hernandez has preferred young Angel Alcaron in his place.
According to reports from ESPN, Leeds United eye the now 18-year-old winger as a possible signing for next season. Ilias will be a free agent come June, and with no agreement reached with Barcelona over an extension, he becomes a realistic target for the Premier League side.
The Catalans are said to be open to retaining the player but cannot match the wages demanded by his entourage. Leeds can satisfy the monetary criteria, however, a big part of the speculated move will depend on whether they can avoid relegation.
The English team are in jeopardy, with no manager in place and in 19th place on the league standings. Yet, with just two points separating them from the safe zone, staying in the first division is a real possibility.
AC Milan are the other big club eyeing his acquisition but do not promise minutes with their senior team, something the English party offers.
The teenager has made 24 appearances for Barca Atletic this term, scoring two goals in the process. He has started just 13 of his 20 games in the league and has not completed a game in over a month. Currently, the youngster is serving a four-game ban for his vicious words against the referee earlier this month.
Only time will tell whether Ilias renews with Barcelona or leaves as a free agent.