The 18-year-old, who has a contract with Chelsea until 2022, has not made a single appearance for the Blues’ senior team, but is highly rated by those at Stamford Bridge.
Chelsea have offered Bate a new contract, but the player is said to have turned down the chance to extend his stay at the club in favour of a move elsewhere.
Bate, who has attracted transfer interest from Leeds, Liverpool, West Ham and Southampton, is looking to leave Chelsea in search of regular first team opportunities.
While Liverpool, West Ham and Southampton have been credited with an interest in the teenager, it is Leeds who are leading the race to acquire his services.
The Whites are closing in on the signing of Bate from Premier League rivals Chelsea, having reached an agreement over the terms of the deal, which includes a sell-on clause.
However, the Yorkshire-based club are yet to get the deal over the line, leaving the door open for another club to hijack the transfer at the eleventh hour.
Leeds are in talks with Bate over personal terms with a potential medical being lined up for Wednesday, but may need to remain vigilant given the interest the player has generated.
