Dortmund teenager speaks out on transfer claims as Barcelona look to derail Man Utd, Chelsea plan
Barcelona are reportedly leading the chase to sign in-demand Borussia Dortmund teenager Yousoufa Moukoko – but the attacker is adamant that any transfer will be made on his terms only.
The 18-year-old was the surprise name included in Germany’s World Cup squad after bursting on to the scene with BVB. Indeed, in his 14 Bundesliga outings this season, Moukoko has six goals and three assists. And his inclusion by Hansi Flick has underlined his status as one of the game’s top upcoming talents.
Interest in acquiring his services is heating up too, with Moukoko’s deal at the Westfalenstadion due to expire in the summer. Talks over a renewal have been held, but the failure to reach an agreement has opened up many avenues of speculation.
Indeed, Chelsea, Manchester United and Liverpool are all being strongly linked with a move to sign the teenager. Earlier this month, it appeared that Chelsea were leading that charge with David Ornstein revealing talks have been held over a potential deal.
However, they appear far from his sole suitors, with Barcelona are reportedly emerging as strong rivals to his signature.
To that end, reports in Spain now believe Barca are right at the front of the queue to sign Moukoko.
And with their finances still delicately balanced, Moukoko is seen as exactly the right sort of signing they need.
That said, Moukoko is adamant his time in Germany is far from over. And while has already has 59 senior appearances to his name, he is eager to stress that he is in no hurry to turn his back on Dortmund.
Moukoko speaks out on transfer confusion
Furthermore, reacting to claims he has turned down another new contract offer from BVB, Moukoko has moved to set the record straight.
“Please, do not believe everything that is in the newspaper,” the teenager explained. “I know that everything is part of the football business now, but although I am young, I do not let myself be pressured to make decisions about my future.”
Aware that claims he has rejected an offer from Dortmund may spark a backlash, Moukoko is also quick to insist his focus is entirely on achieving a successful end to the season with BVB.
As such, he has warned fans not to “accept such a lie about me” when questioned if he had snubbed a new deal.
He added: “I am fully focused on the second half of the season with Borussia Dortmund. No player is bigger than the club,” he continued.
“I know it’s all part of the football business now, but even though I’m young, I don’t let myself be pressured to make decisions about my future.”
In danger of repeating himself somewhat, it’s perhaps fair to say it is too soon to say that Moukoko’s future has already been agreed.
As it stands, he seems prepared to make his suitors wait and any decision on his future may well be on hold until the summer.
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