- 23 hours ago
Moukoko close to decisive transfer decision amid Premier League links
Youssoufa Moukoko is set to sign a new contract with Borussia Dortmund, thereby dealing a significant blow to a string of Premier League clubs who have been angling to sign the teenager.
Moukoko, who became Germany’s youngest player at a World Cup when he appeared off the bench against Japan in November, has caught the attention of Chelsea, Liverpool and Manchester United thanks to a his impressive displays for club and country.
Out of contract at the end of the season, the 18-year-old could have been picked up virtually on a free transfer by any of these clubs, who will have the opportunity to open talks with him as of 1 January.
MORE: Why Dortmund aren’t worried about Moukoko's expiring deal
According to Ruhr Nachrichten, though, any discussions that they may hold will be fruitless as the striker is close to agreeing a new contract with Borussia Dortmund. A deal is close to being agreed, and though it will not be finalised this month, the German source reports, the indications are positive that the decision will fall in their favour.
A positive relationship with head coach Edin Terzic is said to have been a key factor in his decision.
Previously, it had looked like Chelsea would win the race for the teenager, and should they fail, this could fuel the possibility of the Blues moving for Dusan Vlahovic of Juventus.
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Where does Moukoko want to go?
Meanwhile, Moukoko has not lifted the lid on his preferred destination, but he has dropped a hint that he would like to follow in the footsteps of Lionel Messi.
“I'd like to stay in Dortmund because I have everything there., but my dream club used to be Barcelona, because of Lionel Messi,” he told the media during the World Cup.
Barcelona, meanwhile, are off the cards because of their financial problems, while PSG, where Messi is currently plying his trade, are not a club that is being associated with the player currently.
Moukoko, who has six goals and six assists in 22 games this season, meanwhile, is sure to be high on the transfer agenda for the likes of Chelsea, Man Utd and Liverpool for years to come, regardless of whether he signs a new deal or not.