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Barcelona Dismisses Transfer Interest in Rising Star Ebrima Tunkara

Premier League clubs eye the 16-year-old midfielder, but Barcelona plans to keep him and potentially offer a contract extension.

By 2 min read

FC Barcelona has firmly rejected any notions of parting ways with young academy standout Ebrima Tunkara, despite growing attention from English Premier League clubs. Both Everton and Aston Villa have reportedly tracked the 16-year-old midfielder, sending intermediaries to monitor his development at the Ciutat Esportiva training ground. However, transfer expert Fabrizio Romano reported that the Catalan club has no intention of entertaining offers for one of its most prized prospects.

The Spanish giants are completely unconcerned about the player's long-term future, noting that he is already secured under contract until 2029. In fact, internal discussions regarding a potential contract extension could take place in the coming months as the club looks to further solidify its commitment to the teenager. Barcelona's management views the young talent as an essential part of the organization's long-term plans.

Born in the Gambia, Tunkara joined the famed La Masia academy during the 2018-2019 season. The left-footed attacking midfielder has quickly drawn praise for his technical dribbling ability, physical presence, and composure on the pitch. After climbing through the youth ranks, he made his debut for the reserve squad, Barça Atlètic, in February at just 15 years old.

First-team manager Hansi Flick has integrated the youngster into senior squad activities after being impressed by him during the pre-season. Although a subsequent injury sidelined the midfielder for several months, he recently returned to action and even scored against Aston Villa in the UEFA Youth League. His rapid progression also earned him a spot on the bench for the senior team's La Liga victory over Alavés.

While Tunkara has yet to make his official first-team debut, analysts and club insiders widely anticipate that he will soon become the next major academy graduate to feature for the senior side. Romano expressed strong confidence in the teenager's trajectory, stating that he believes the youngster will soon step onto the pitch for his official debut.

As the club prepares for future fixtures, the rising star remains firmly in the plans of the coaching staff. With Barcelona prioritizing the promotion of its homegrown talent amid ongoing financial constraints, locking down elite prospects like Tunkara remains a central focus for the organization's sporting department.

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