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Barcelona academy youngster emerges as a target for Aston Villa and Everton – report

Aston Villa and Everton are reportedly tracking Barcelona academy midfielder Ebrima Tunkara as they consider potential moves for the teenager in future transfer windows. According to Barca Universal on Saturday, November 7, 2026, both Premier League clubs have been monitoring the 16-year-old, regarded as one of the brightest talents emerging from La Masia.

Tunkara’s progress has attracted interest from several English clubs, with Villa and Everton among the strongest admirers. The attention has reportedly increased following favourable assessments from intermediaries who regularly visit Barcelona’s Ciutat Esportiva training centre. Their observations have helped bring the teenager onto the radar of clubs looking to recruit emerging talent from academies.

Villa have also had an opportunity to evaluate the youngster. The Premier League club met Barcelona’s Juvenil A side in the UEFA Youth League earlier this week, playing out a 3-3 draw. Tunkara impressed, scoring for the Catalan team and giving Villa another chance to observe his ability.

The report suggests that approaches have been made to persuade the midfielder to leave Barcelona and continue his development in England. However, the Spanish club are said to be relaxed about the interest and determined to retain one of their most promising academy players.

Barcelona view Tunkara as an important part of their long-term plans and have moved to safeguard his future by extending his contract until 2029. The teenager has not indicated that he wants to depart, strengthening the club’s confidence as they seek to keep him in Catalonia.

Born in Gambia, Tunkara joined Barcelona’s youth system during the 2018/19 season. He has progressed through the academy ranks and established himself as one of La Masia’s standout prospects.

Although only 16, he has already reached significant milestones. He made his Barcelona Atletic debut in February and has since become an important member of the team coached by Juliano Belletti. His performances have further raised his profile within the club and demonstrated his ability to compete against older opponents.

First-team manager Hansi Flick has also noticed his development. Tunkara took part in senior-team pre-season preparations during the summer, reportedly making a positive impression. The experience strengthened his standing among the club’s future prospects and allowed him to work alongside established professionals.

More recently, he has trained regularly with Barcelona’s first team following Dani Olmo’s injury. His involvement offers exposure to senior football and allows him to learn from experienced players. Flick’s decision to include him reflects the coaching staff’s confidence in his potential.

For Villa and Everton, persuading Tunkara to leave Barcelona could be difficult. He is receiving opportunities to progress within the club, while the Catalan side are committed to developing young talents rather than losing them before they fulfil their potential.

With his contract secured until 2029 and a pathway towards the first team emerging, Barcelona are in a strong position to resist interest from England. Any attempt to prise him away may depend on whether the player himself becomes interested in a move, something the report says has not happened so far.

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