US youth international forward Konrad de la Fuente, who still awaits his competitive debut for FC Barcelona, is generating interest from some of Europe’s biggest clubs, according to a report from Mundo Deportivo.
The list of suitors reportedly includes Bayern Munich, Borussia Dortmund, Girona and several unnamed clubs from the Netherlands. But Barca seem unwilling to transfer him unless the deal makes sense for everyone involved, even if demands are growing around the 19-year-old Miami native.
Konrad signed a contract extension with Barcelona through 2022 this past June, reflecting the confidence shown in him by the La Liga powerhouse. He’s since appeared in several first-team friendlies under new head coach Ronald Koeman, who showered praised on the winger after a 3-1 win against Gimnastic.
Konrad’s the first American to play for the Blaugrana, and a separate report from ESPN said his summertime extension came with a €50 million release that could reach €100 million should he make a first-team debut. If any team wants to sign the young prospect, odds are it’d come at a lofty price.
Should Konrad land at Dortmund, he'd feature alongside NYCFC academy product Giovanni Reyna, while the Bayern destination would see him join forces with MLS academy products Chris Richards and Alphonso Davies. Dortmund, of course, also was the home of USMNT star Christian Pulisic before he was transferred to Chelsea.
Most of Konrad’s minutes last year came with Barcelona’s Under-19 team, though he also featured in seven matches for their B team. He had seven goals and three assists in 21 matches for both groups, and also consistently impressed in the UEFA Youth League.
Part of the La Masia academy since 2014, he made five appearances for the US at the FIFA Under-20 World Cup in 2019. They lost to Ecuador in the quarterfinals, and teammates included Ajax outside back Sergino Dest, Lille winger Timothy Weah and Richards.
