Leeds United are reportedly lining up a move for Reims II defender Enzo Valentim who has blown their scouting team away.

The Whites are understood to face competition for the 18-year-old, with Stoke City and Liverpool also interested in the Frenchman.

According to Football Insider, Leeds are paying close attention to Valentim and director of football Victor Orta is ready to make a move before the end of the transfer window.

The report claims that Valentim has wowed the Yorkshire club’s scouts, who have delivered glowing reports of his potential.

The 18-year-old is a product of the Tours academy system and made two senior appearances for the club before his switch to Reims last summer. 

Valentim’s potential has been recognised by the French national setup and the defender has been capped at under-19 level.

Leeds have added a number of players to their academy sides this summer, including Barcelona duo Rafa Mujica and Guillermo Amor, and it appears the club are keen to continue to bolster their youth sides.

However, the interest of Liverpool could mean that they’re unable to add the Frenchman to that list. 

The Verdict

Given his exploits for the French under-19s and the demand for his signature, Valentim appears a talented young player with high potential and this could be a move that pays dividends for Leeds in years to come.

The Whites could struggle to persuade the 18-year-old to move to Elland Road given that Champions League winners Liverpool are thought to be interested but the Whites may feel they can offer a more streamlined route to the first team. 

Marcelo Bielsa was open to utilising Leeds academy players in the first team last season, with Leif Davis, Jamie Shackleton, and Jack Clarke all seeing action.

Valentim may believe that he could be offered similar opportunities if he joins the Championship club.