Leeds have one thing they can offer Kerim Alajbegovic that Milan can't amid transfer latest

Leeds United are facing competition in the battle to sign Kerim Alajbegovic.

The teenage sensation has long-been linked with a move to Elland Road, as Leeds look to bolster their attacking options next term.

The 18-year-old registered a combined 17 goals and assists during a spell at Red Bull Salzburg last season.

He is now back at Bayer Leverkusen, who exercised a buy-back clause inserted in his Salzburg contract.

There have been reports that Alajbegovic could be sold again for a significant profit this close season, though.

Indeed, European heavyweights Milan apparently have him in their sights, but Leeds can take solace in one thing they can offer.

Milan eye Leeds-linked ace Kerim Alajbegovic

Milan are in the process of making additions for new head coach Ruben Amorim, who is back in work after his dreadful spell at Manchester United.

Gazzetta dello Sport has reported that Milan have identified Alajbegovic as a potential addition this summer, with Rafael Leao expected to leave.

On the face of it, this would represent a blow to Leeds' chances of securing a transfer.

Milan are one of the most decorated clubs in European football and right now have an obvious path to playing in football's most elite competitions.

However, there is a legitimate argument to make that Leeds have one thing they can offer immediately.

At Elland Road, the teenager would first and foremost likely have far more opportunities for minutes, and could easily become a leading star given his prodigious talent.

It would give him the chance to shine a big spotlight on this talent, and enhance his chances of developing into an elite talent.

Moreover, Leeds are in the midst of building an exciting project under 49ers Enterprises, and now could be a great time for him to join it.

Zlatan Ibrahimovic is a fan of Alajbegovic

One potential issue Leeds could face, though, is that Rossoneri great Zlatan Ibrahimovic is clearly a fan of Alajbegovic.

The Sweden great acts as an advisor to Milan owners RedBird Capital Partners and he spoke about Alajbegovic to Fox Sports on air during the World Cup.

"The most surprising thing is his courage," Ibrahimovic said.

"An eighteen-year-old, under pressure, with millions of people watching him, plays as if he owns the stadium. That's rare." 

It looks an increasingly difficult deal for Leeds to pull off, but they should show ambition, and they should point out the advantage they have that Milan do not.