According to a report from SPORT, Ibrahim Diarra is set to join Barcelona in December when he turns 18, with the agreement already fully secured.
Although this move might have gone under the radar, it is important to note that Barça brought him in for a few training sessions with Barça Atletic this summer. This gesture was made to show their support and confidence in his abilities.
Last winter, Diarra left a strong impression during his trial period with the reserve team. The Catalan club wanted to make it clear that they see great potential in him and that they have high hopes for his future.
Diarra left a lasting impression
During his time training with both the youth team and Barça Atletic, Diarra impressed the coaching staff with his skills and work ethic.
When his visa expired in February, forcing him to return to Mali, the club had already made it known that they were keen on discussing his future arrival. However, due to regulations, he would need to wait until he turned 18 in December before officially joining the club.
Club sources have highlighted Diarra’s outstanding qualities, particularly his mobility and speed, which make him an exciting prospect for the team.
He is currently part of the African Foot Academy in Mali, an institution that has recently established collaborative ties with FC Barcelona. It was through this Academy that his trial at Barça’s training facilities was arranged.
The agreement to bring Diarra to Barcelona is now completely finalized, demonstrating the club’s commitment to the young Malian striker.
In addition to securing Diarra’s future, Barça has also reached an agreement with the African Foot Academy to support its economic development. In return, Barcelona will have preferential rights to some of the Academy’s most promising talents.
Diarra will begin his journey with Barça by training with Albert Sanchez’s reserve team. From there, his development will determine how quickly he can earn opportunities with the first team.
At just 18 years old, it will be a gradual process, but the club is confident in his potential.
