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Exclusive: Chelsea starlet heading to Leeds United next week
Chelsea starlet Ashley Akpan is heading to Leeds United next week after being told he can find a new club, Football Insider can reveal.
The 15-year-old defender, who turns 16 next month, is a target for multiple clubs as his time at the Premier League giants comes to an end.
A Leeds source has told Football Insider that Akpan will head to Thorp Arch next week to undergo a trial as the club look to steal a march on rivals in the race for his signature.
United coaches will run the rule over the teenager at close quarters during an extended period that may include age-group matches.
This comes after Football Insider revealed earlier this week that Akpan has been informed he will not be offered a scholarship deal at Stamford Bridge.
Akpan has come through the youth ranks at Chelsea and had appeared well placed to progress from schoolboy terms.
But he is now set to continue his career elsewhere and, although he remains on the books of the Londoners, he will leave immediately he secures a new club.
Chelsea have granted Akpan permission to trial for clubs as he looks to secure a scholarship or professional deal elsewhere.
He is predominantly a defender but can also play in midfield and his versatility makes an attractive proposition to a number of clubs.
Akpan has represented Poland at Under-15 level but is also eligible to play for Nigeria and England.
In other Leeds United news, agent whispers suggest a huge Elland Road signing is on the cards at the end of this month.