Barcelona want to renew 17-year-old versatile La Masia gem, have high hopes on him | OneFootball

For some time now, there has been talk of FC Barcelona’s need to strengthen at centre-back.

The Blaugrana explored the possibility during the summer, especially after Ronald Araujo and Alvaro Cortes’ exits, but no reinforcements arrived.

The sporting department, led by Deco, continues to monitor the market closely for options. At the same time, the Catalans are also keeping a close eye on the development of players coming through the academy.

Baba Kourouma making an impression

And, according to Carlos Monfort of SPORT, one of the names generating particularly positive reports within Barcelona is Baba Kourouma.

Within Barça there is a belief that the 17-year-old starlet possesses some very interesting qualities and that, if he maintains his current development, he could become a player to watch in the future.

View this post on Instagram A post shared by Baba Kourouma🇬🇳/🇪🇸 (@_babakourouma)

As such, they are now planning to renew the La Masia prospect’s contract in the near future.

A highly versatile player

Kourouma did not start out as a centre-back. The teenager, brother of former Barcelona star Ilaix Moriba, began as a defensive midfielder before gradually being converted into a central defender.

He can also play at left-back or move back into midfield, or in advanced positions on the flank. The youngster is also capable of playing as a No. 10, a role he has filled with the Catalan national team.

Kourouma has just received a call-up to the Spain Under-18 squad after recently completing the necessary paperwork to make him eligible.

Last season, he already showed glimpses of his potential. In his first year at the Juvenil level, he made 43 appearances and was also entrusted with the captain’s armband, reflecting the confidence placed in him.

View this post on Instagram A post shared by Baba Kourouma🇬🇳/🇪🇸 (@_babakourouma)

He was also called up to train with the first team by Hansi Flick last year.

Barça want to renew him

As such, Barcelona want to renew him. Kourouma’s contract runs until 2028 and the club’s intention is to extend his deal.

The player, for his part, dreams of succeeding in the Blaugrana shirt. Over the past few years, he has received several approaches from other clubs, including some significant offers, but he has always chosen to remain at La Masia.

Even as search for a centre-back continues, the La Liga champions are also closely watching Kourouma’s development within the academy.