Leeds United could end up battling Southampton for Dundee United centre-back Kerr Smith, according to The Scottish Sun.

The Lowdown: Smith’s positional change

Smith is just 16 years of age but has already changed position during his time with The Tangerines.

Dundee United’s academy director Andy Goldie admitted earlier this year that Smith has transitioned from a central midfielder to a centre-back - perhaps meaning he'll have the ball-playing ability to be a centre-back of the future for Marcelo Bielsa.

He’s made seven senior appearances for his current employers and was actually on trial with Manchester United last year.

Smith has two years remaining on his Dundee United contract, but it seems as if a late transfer away from Scotland could be on the cards.

The Latest: Saints leading the way

The Scottish Sun shared a story on Monday lunchtime regarding Smith, with Leeds name-checked with an interest.

Dundee United’s board are expected to part ways with the youngster before the end of the month, with Southampton thought to be leading the way.

However, Leeds, along with Celtic, Crystal Palace and Leicester, are all tracking the defender ahead of a possible late swoop.

The Verdict: Another shrewd U23 addition?

Should Leeds end up making their move for Smith and pip the Saints to a transfer, the teenager could be the latest exciting addition at Thorp Arch.

Victor Orta has already helped the club bolster its academy ranks this summer with the acquisitions of Amari Miller, Sean McGurk and Lewis Bate.

Celtic centre-back Leo Hjelde also looks set to make the move to Yorkshire, and who knows, the Whites may end up swooping for another teenage defender from Scotland in Smith as well.

In other news: Leeds linked with move for Championship forward, find out more here.