Real Madrid’s ‘Japanese Messi’ shows why he could be Barcelona star’s successor [VIDEO]

Japanese youngster, Takefusa Kubo, is quietly building a reputation for himself in Spain.

While Eden Hazard was La Liga’s big signing last summer, Real Madrid’s capture of Kubo also set tongues wagging in the Spanish capital

The 18-year-old  was, at the time, hailed by the club as “one of the most promising youngsters in world football.”

While on loan at Real Mallorca, Kubo has been impressive and appears to be taking that into the league restart.

Despite losing 4-0 to Barcelona, Kubo received rave reviews for his performance.

Kubo, 18, signed a five-year contract with Real Madrid for an undisclosed fee.

“A technically gifted and hugely talented attacking midfielder, he possesses wonderful vision, quick feet and has an eye for goal,” the club said.

Kubo’s got more than the expectations of signing for one of the world’s biggest clubs hanging over his head, however, as his particular set of gifts has seen him compared to one of the game’s all-time greats as well

His style of play has earned him the enviable tag of the ‘Japanese Messi’, ironically after the captain of Real’s arch-rivals and current Spanish champions, Barcelona having featured at the Catalan club’s academy as well.

And in training, Kubo seems to be showing why those comparisons might not be out of place.

Take a look at the videos below:

Kubo, who made his Japan debut against El Salvador impressed for table-topping J League side FC Tokyo.

Kubo might have turned out for the Blaugrana instead had Barcelona not been found guilty of youth transfer breaches and handed a 14-month transfer ban by FIFA.

So what has made Kubo such a sought after property in world football? While he may not be ready for the first division just yet, here’s a taste of what Spanish fans could expect from the teenager.