Ebrima Tunkara, Digi Mart USA News: Barcelona have another promising La Masia talent emerging through the academy, with 16-year-old Ebrima Tunkara considered the next big prospect at the club.
Hansi Flick first brought the teenager into the first-team picture during pre-season, when he made a positive impression. Tunkara later suffered an injury that kept him out of action for several months before he returned a few weeks ago.
Dani Olmo’s absence allowed Flick to call Tunkara into the first-team squad for the match against Alavés last weekend. He has not yet made his Barcelona debut, but his potential is widely seen, and he has attracted interest from elite clubs across Europe.
Aston Villa and Everton have both been linked with moves for the teenager. However, journalist Fabrizio Romano reports that Barcelona have no intention of allowing other clubs to pursue him.
“There are rumours about Aston Villa in the media, but there is no chance Barcelona will open the door for Ebrima Tunkara to leave,” Romano said. “Forget about it because he is staying at Barcelona.”
Romano also suggested that the club may discuss a new contract with the player. “I wouldn’t be surprised if the club decided to discuss a new contract with Ebrima at some point in the coming months,” he said.
Tunkara already has a contract through 2029, having signed an extension earlier this year. Barcelona nonetheless appear keen to strengthen their commitment to him.
Romano also commented on Flick’s confidence in the player. “Barcelona love Ebrima, Hansi Flick is very happy with Ebrima, and once again in training the boy is doing very, very well,” he said.
The youngster scored against Aston Villa in the UEFA Youth League earlier this week, another sign of his potential. Romano predicted that Tunkara will be the next La Masia talent to make his first-team debut for Barcelona.
“I think Ebrima Tunkara will be the next La Masia gem to make his first-team debut for Barcelona,” he said.
Romano’s comments reflect the regard Barcelona have for the 16-year-old. It remains to be seen whether he will make his debut in the coming games.
