Leeds United are said to be rivalling the likes of Manchester United and Tottenham Hotspur in a battle to sign Luca Murphy, according to TEAMtalk. 

Murphy has recently left National League side, Hartlepool by mutual consent, which has alerted a number of clubs to his immediate availability.

The 17-year-old wasn't on a professional contract with Hartlepool, and he evidently had his eyes set on a move to a more reputable club in the future.

This latest report also claims that Wolves, Sunderland and Newcastle are also keeping tabs on the promising young defender who certainly isn't going to be short of offers.

Murphy will have to plot his next move carefully, as it could decide which direction his development heads in at a crucial stage of his career.

A move to Leeds could be tempting, as Marcelo Bielsa has already given a number of the club's young players a chance in the first-team this season.

They've more than stepped up to the mark as well, with Bielsa's side well in the hunt for a long-awaited return to the Premier League.

But it's going to be an interesting few weeks for Murphy, and he'll be keen to have his long-term future resolved at the earliest of opportunities.

The Verdict: 

He's an exciting talent.

You don't attract interest from some of the biggest clubs in England by luck, and he would be more than deserving of a move to any of the clubs interested in signing him.

His next move will be one of the most important decisions he makes, and could go a long way in deciding which direction his future heads in.