Barcelona set to snatch Leeds youngster Elliott Kebbie from under Manchester United’s nose

Pep Guardiola – Barcelona & Sir Alex Ferguson – Manchester United (Getty Images)

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Young Elliott Kebbie is set for a move away from Leeds, and in favour of Champions League winners Barcelona after the Spanish side saw off interest from Manchester United.

Leeds believed they were close to signing the prospect on a professional contract after brushing off interest from England’s top clubs over the past three years, but after impressing on a trial at Barcelona he is on the verge of signing for the Catalan side.

Due to the nature of the transfer Leeds are due substantial compensation but the club insist there was no foul play on Barcelona’s part.

A club spokesman told The Daily Mail: “We have retained our right to compensation should Elliot choose to pursue a football career in Spain and sign for another club.

“But this is an amicable parting of the ways and there is no issue with Barcelona over this.”

Kebbie looks keen on this move as he has already relocated with his mother to Spain just months before his scholarship with Leeds was due to start.

The youngster has been on the books of the Yorkshire club since he was eight, making an impression on his team mates in that time, as well as getting close to national honours in athletics having run a 100m sprint in 11.5 seconds when he was 14.

Leeds defender Leigh Bromby said of Kebbie: “From what we’ve seen of Elliot, he looks a real prospect. 

“He’s lightning quick like Walcott but has other things in his locker too.

“And if a club like Barca are looking at him, then it shows he must have the potential to go a long way.”