Barcelona are reportedly tracking Borussia Dortmund youngster Youssoufa Moukoko as they seek to steal the wonderkid.
The 18-year-old German international is out of contract at the end of the season and has scored six times in 14 league appearances this season, whilst also providing four assists.
A report from SPORT in Spain has claimed that Barcelona want to sign the teenager, who was in Germany’s World Cup squad, on a free transfer should he not extend with Dortmund.
The Blaugrana were interested in Brazilian wonderkind, Endrick, but were financially outmuscled by Real Madrid for the striker, and Moukoko would provide a much cheaper, and more experienced alternative.
“In the case of Moukoko, Barça was studying the operation in parallel to Endrick’s and here are parameters that make it much more advisable. The first thing is that it would come at zero cost, although that would also imply a high token due to the enormous quality of the footballer,” the report stated.
“The player has been a staunch follower of Barça and a fan of Leo Messi since he was little. His publications on his networks make it clear and he would see a dream come true to be able to play at the Camp Nou.
“Barca they understand that the footballer only prioritizes either renewing for Borussia Dortmund or in case of leaving, doing so towards the Camp Nou as long as they are given sufficient sports guarantees.”
TIF thoughts on Moukoko and Barcelona…
The teenager could prove to be an ideal future signing for Barcelona. With 34-year-old Robert Lewandowksi currently leading the line, Moukoko could be an understudy to the former Bayern Munich star, and then eventually take over from him.
Barcelona are trying to build a young team, with the likes of Pedri, Gavi, Ansu Fati and Alejandro Balde expected to be mainstays for years to come, and the Dortmund star could be the starlet to lead these wunderkids to the next level.
Whether he leaves Dortmund now or stays is an issue for Xavi, but given his adoration for the club, there is a chance that he ends up at the Nou Camp now or in the future, to rival Endrick.