Kubo spent four years in Barcelona's La Masia academy and scored 74 goals in 30 games at the age of 12.
However, he was forced to return to Japan after the Catalan side were found guilty of breaching regulations regarding signing minors.
Since then, the now-18-year-old has been nicknamed the 'Japanese Messi' (nope, never heard that one before) on account of his slight build, low centre of gravity and darting style.
His talent has also drawn attention from Pep Guardiola at Manchester City, according to the report.
Guardiola was manager of Barcelona's first team when Kubo joined La Masia.
The teenager has scored four goals and assisted four more in 13 games for Tokyo so far this season.
READ MORE...
8 football club owners who LOVE a good superstition
Why women's football was banned for 50 years – and is only just recovering
‘Managing Leeds? It was an option that appeared, but it wasn’t the right timing. I decided it wasn’t a good idea to leave the club I was at mid-season’: Premier League boss admits to turning down opportunity to replace Jesse Marsch in 2023
‘Ruben Amorim could have waited for Real Madrid and had a better chance to be successful – to have joined Manchester United, he must be convinced in his own ability’ Former Old Trafford coach’s verdict on new boss
