Arsenal 'pushing to sign Barcelona youngster'

Arsenal are reportedly exploring the possibility of signing Barcelona youngster Ilias Akhomach this summer.

The 18-year-old's contract at Camp Nou is due to expire at the end of June, and it is believed that he will be leaving the Catalan giants on a free transfer in search of pastures new.

Leeds United have recently been linked with the attacker, and it has been claimed that the Whites are close to securing his signature.

However, although Leeds are in pole position, Arsenal have now registered an interest in bringing Akhomach to the Emirates Stadium, according to SPORT.

The report claims that the Gunners have been following the teenager 'for some time', and Mikel Arteta's side are ready to battle their fellow Premier League side for his signature.

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Sevilla and AC Milan have also been credited with an interest, but it is understood that the forward is keen to make the move to the Premier League ahead of the 2023-24 campaign.

Akhomach came through the youth system at Barcelona before making his first-team debut in November 2021.

In total, the Spain Under-19s international has played three times for the Catalan outfit, although he has not been involved for the first team this season.

Akhomach's versatility is said to appeal to Arsenal, as he is capable of playing off the right, off the left and through the middle, featuring in all three positions for Barcelona's youth teams.

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Arsenal are expected to be active during this summer's transfer window, with head coach Arteta set to be given funds to make the club a force in European football once again.

The Gunners entered the international break off the back of a 4-1 home win over Crystal Palace, which moved them eight points clear of second-placed Manchester City at the top of the Premier League table.

Having been eliminated by Sporting Lisbon in the Europa League on March 16, Arsenal now only have league football to focus on this season, and they will return to action at home to Leeds on April 1.

Barcelona, meanwhile, are chasing a La Liga and Copa del Rey double this season, and Xavi's side will also return to action on April 1, facing a trip to bottom-of-the-table Elche.