Barcelona’s La Masia academy has produced several exciting young players in recent years, with the likes of Gavi and Alejandro Balde being standouts to have made the jump to the first team.
Others have promised to follow in their footsteps, but have since fallen short and are now unlikely to do so. Ilias Akhomach falls into this category, having been previously heralded as a future key player for the Barcelona first team.
However, he will almost certainly leave this summer, upon the expiry of his contract. The 18-year-old is likely to continue his development away from Barcelona, with a move to the Premier League appearing most likely.
Leeds United have been the favourites for Ilias’ signature, but Sport now report that Arsenal are hoping to sign the teenager this summer. Sevilla and AC Milan are also said to be keen on the young forward.
The Gunners have previously signed youngsters from Barcelona, with the likes of Cesc Fabregas and Hector Bellerin having made the move to North London as teenagers in the past.
Despite his future appearing to lie away from Barcelona, Ilias has been a regular for Barca Atletic in recent weeks, which has reportedly led to internal disagreements at the club.
