Barcelona youth team gem set for career-defining talks with Deco over long-term future | OneFootball

For a long time now, Barcelona have viewed Diego Kochen as one of the brightest young goalkeepers coming through La Masia. 

However, with the first-team goalkeeping situation becoming increasingly crowded ahead of next season, the American shot-stopper now finds himself at an important point in his career.

According to reports from SPORT, Kochen is expected to sit down with sporting director Deco once the season comes to an end in order to discuss what comes next. 

The young goalkeeper is eager to understand the club’s plans before making any decision regarding his future.

First team position unlikely

At the moment, breaking into Barcelona’s senior setup looks far from straightforward. 

This is because Joan Garcia will continue to be the preferred option, while Wojciech Szczesny is also likely to continue. On top of that, both Inaki Pena and Marc-Andre ter Stegen remain part of the picture.

Diego Kochen wants some clarity over his future. (Photo by Alex Caparros/Getty Images)

That situation leaves very little room for Kochen despite the fact that he has regularly been around the first team over the last year. 

In fact, the goalkeeper has already received 98 call-ups with the senior squad but is still waiting for the chance to make his official debut.

Still trying his best

Despite the uncertainty, the young goalkeeper is still pushing hard to impress Hansi Flick during the closing weeks of the campaign. 

Kochen understands that his development cannot remain on hold forever, which is why there is an understanding that his cycle with Barça Atlètic may be reaching its end. 

Because of that, a summer move is increasingly seen as a realistic solution. Such a move would allow him to continue growing with regular minutes while remaining connected to Barcelona.

In that regard, several teams are reportedly monitoring his situation closely, which is why a permanent transfer has not been ruled out either, although much will depend on how Barcelona view his long-term potential.