Issa Tounkara, captain of the Malian team that were finalists in the last U17 Africa Cup of Nations, has been approached by several clubs, including Olympique Lyonnais, Fenerbahçe, Galatasaray, Anderlecht, and Villarreal. Despite interest from multiple clubs, Tounkara is now expected to join Villarreal. Balla Sanogo commented that the player was on a very good trajectory before an injury impeded his progress and thinks Villarreal is a major European club where he can establish himself.