Leeds United and Southampton are among a host of clubs interested in signing Paris Saint-Germain youngster Thierno Balde, according to L'Equipe.

Marcelo Bielsa will be eager to strengthen his squad ahead of a potential return to the Premier League, and the lengthy break from EFL action will have given him time to identify potential transfer targets.

One player who you would expect to be one for the future if he arrived at Elland Road is PSG starlet Thierno Balde, who is said to be attracting plenty of interest heading into the summer.

The 17-year-old plays in defence and is capable of playing either at centre-half or right-back, making him a potentially useful and versatile long-term option.

The young defence came through the ranks at PSG and has been impressive for the club's youth side and in the UEFA Youth League, but is currently facing an uncertain future at the Parc des Princes.

Balde - eligible to play for either France or Guinea-Bissau at international level - is out of contract at PSG this summer.

L'Equipe claim that Leeds, Southampton and Saint-Etienne are among those interested in the defender, who has been reportedly offered a new contract to extend his stay in Paris.

Leeds will be keeping an eye on Balde's situation in Paris, with discussions said to be continuing between the player and the club.

The Verdict

Balde looks to be an exciting prospect and could be a useful addition for Leeds.

The club have plenty of talented up and coming defenders coming through the ranks, such as Pascal Struijk and Oliver Casey, but there is no harm in bringing in a talent like Balde effectively for free.

Bielsa is a manager who loves to develop young players, and playing under a manager like him could be beneficial for Balde.