According to Radio Sevilla, as relayed by Mundo Deportivo, Barcelona youngster Ilias Akhomach, whose contract is set to expire at the end of the season, has emerged as a prospective target for La Liga rivals Sevilla.
Akhomach is one among the gifted young talents to have come through the La Masia ranks. The young winger made his first-team breakthrough last season right around the time when Xavi Hernandez took over the reins of the club.
Ilias has played three games for the Blaugrana’s first team. However, competition for places meant that he had to go back to playing for Barça Atletic and the club’s Under-19 team in the UEFA Youth League.
The 18-year-old winger has played 25 matches across teams and competitions this term and has netted two goals in the process.
Premier League club Leeds United are understood to be interested in securing his services, but Sevilla, too, have now joined the race to snap up Ilias on a free transfer when his contract expires in the summer.
Sevilla director Monchi sees the talented 18-year-old as a good addition as he looks to refresh the Los Nervionenses’ squad after a disappointing campaign thus far.
Barcelona are understood to be disappointed with the fact that they have been unable to tie down Ilias Akhomach and fellow Barça Atletic forward Victor Barbera to new contracts.
As things stand, it is looking increasingly likely that the pair will be on the move as free agents in the summer. While Barbera seems to be bound for Belgian outfit Club Brugge, it remains to be see where Akhomach ends up, with Sevilla and Leeds United interested in him.
