Issa Tounkara, the 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, and Anderlecht. There is also interest from Villarreal, and Tounkara is now expected to join the Spanish club. Balla Sanogo, a sporting director, commented that an injury had previously hindered the player's progress but believes he can become a successful player at a major European club like Villarreal.