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Report: Leeds United or Arsenal the “ideal scenario” for winger set to leave European giants

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Leeds United’s pursuit of Barcelona winger Ilias Akhomach could be greeted by competition from Mikel Arteta’s Arsenal.

Youth investment has been one of the key things that Leeds fans can unanimously say the board have got right in recent seasons, with a number of talented youngsters aiming to have an impact this season and beyond at Elland Road.

More is being planned for the summer window, though, as Leeds continue their scouting missions across Europe.

Ilias Akhomach to Leeds?

Reports emerged earlier in 2023 that Leeds were looking to push through the signing of Barcelona winger, Ilias Akhomach.

El Chiringuito claimed that Leeds had reached an agreement with the 18-year-old to join the Whites when his contract expires at the end of the season, while Mundo Deportivo claimed the “pearl” of Barcelona’s La Masia has rejected contract proposals and is destined for Leeds.

While there has been no official confirmation that the winger is set for West Yorkshire, Mundo’s claim shares that Barcelona hierarchy wish that he was frozen out of the youth setup amid this speculation.

Competition from Arsenal

However, it may not be smooth sailing for Leeds when it comes to getting this deal over the line, with SPORT now reporting of significant interest from three clubs.

Arsenal, Sevilla, and AC Milan are also said to be in talks with the Catalan giants’ star youngster over a potential move:

“The Gunners have been following the player from Hostalets de Pierola for a long time and are in the bidding.

“English football seems to be an ideal scenario for the characteristics of Ilias. Arsenal are a club that are always on the lookout for emerging stars and the winger’s talent has not gone unnoticed.”

Will Leeds stay up?

Yes

Yes

No

No

Here we have another youth signing whose decision will largely boil down to ‘the pathway’ to first-team football.

Arsenal are giving a lot of youngsters minutes at the moment under Arteta, but there is no denying that Akhomach would join Leeds and instantly be in the reckoning for senior football.

He would have to be patient at the Emirates, whereas Leeds could be seen as more of a wiser stepping stone in his career.

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Leeds United season ticket holder since 2013/14, currently situated in the middle of the FA5 noise. From Pablo Hernandez to 5-1 drubbings, I've seen it all at Elland Road.