United States international winger Konrad De La Fuente decided not to wait for his turn with La Liga powerhouse Barcelona. Instead, the 19-year-old star opted to leave Spain and join Ligue 1 club Olympique de Marseille.
According to reports, Marseille will pay around $3.5 million for De La Fuente with the deal, also including 50 percent of any future transfer fee going to Barca.
De La Fuente has been part of Barcelona’s academy since 2013. He made his debut for reserve team Barcelona B in 2018 and went on to make 29 appearances with nine goals scored. His chance to get a taste of first-team soccer came last season when he played in two games in Champions League and one in Copa Del Rey.
While Barca was high on De La Fuente, the player was eager to leave the club as his chances of getting a more prominent role took a hit when the Catalan giants signed Sergio Aguero and Memphis Depay earlier this summer. The American received interest from several high-profile clubs, but Marseille presented itself as the best option.
The club is not only owned by fellow American Frank McCourt, but manager Jorge Sampaoli was also keen on adding Konrad De La Fuente and eyes an important role for him next season.
De La Fuente has been a longtime international for the United States, playing for most of the country’s youth selections. He made his debut for USMNT’s senior team in 2020, when he played in the goalless game against Wales.
