Barcelona youth prodigy set to sign his first professional contract on Friday | OneFootball

At a time when Barcelona have had to brace themselves for the exits of talented youth players such as Pedro Fernandez ‘Dro’ and Quim Junyent, the club have doubled down on the retention of other key talented players in La Masia.

Barcelona have also upped the ante in the transfer market, having already roped in Joaquin Delgado and are currently closing in on the capture of Egyptian wizard Hamza Abdelkarim.

Now, in yet another major win for Barça, it appears the club are on the verge of allowing Ebrima Tunkara to sign his first professional contract.

Tunkara to pen deal on Friday

According to Mundo Deportivo, Tunkara is set to sign his first professional contract with FC Barcelona this Friday.

Tunkara is already a well-known name among followers of Barcelona’s youth system. Last summer, he made a significant leap straight to Pol Planas’ Juvenil A team, bypassing standard age progressions.

His dominant physique allows him to compete comfortably against players several years his senior, but he is far more than just a physical presence.

Tunkara signing a professional deal is a major win for Barcelona. (Photo by Juan Manuel Serrano Arce/Getty Images)

The deal, which will officially take effect in March when the academy graduate turns 16, represents a significant victory for the club.

Barcelona have successfully managed to convince and retain one of the most exciting talents in their system, fending off numerous lucrative offers from major European clubs who were circling the youngster.

While he hasn’t been an undisputed starter this season due to fierce competition from talents like Pedro Villar and Orian Goren, his progress is viewed as optimal.

As far as his progression to the first team is concerned, Barcelona have asked the player to remain patient and wait for his opportunity. This is a sentiment shared by his entourage as well.

He is represented by Pini Zahavi’s agency, which also manages Hansi Flick and Robert Lewandowski.