By Mark Smith

9th Jan, 2020 | 5:30pm

Leeds look to jump ahead of rivals as Chelsea starlet set for trial - report

Chelsea defender Ashley Akpan is set to go on trial with Leeds United, according to Football Insider.

It is suggested that the youngster has been told he can find a new club by the Premier League side and that he will travel to Thorp Arch as early as next week.

According to the report, Leeds will look to jump ahead of a number of clubs in the race for the 15-year-old’s signature by offering him the early trial.

Akpan would arrive with good experience having both played for Chelsea and Poland at international level for their under-15s.

The young enforcer would be looking to rejuvenate his career after it reportedly looked like he was well-placed to earn a scholarship deal at Stamford Bridge.

There aren’t many better places to learn your trade than at Leeds’ academy, with a number of their youngsters being given opportunities at higher levels.

We were at the under-23s’ 5-0 victory over Hull City on Sunday, and two under-18 defenders in Nohan Kenneh and Charlie Cresswell were named at the back.

That would be good motivation for Akpan as it shows that Carlos Corberan isn’t afraid to give younger players an opportunity should they impress.

Versatility is key if you are to succeed at Leeds, and Akpan can play both in defence and midfield – something which could make him stand out in their academy.

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