Villarreal have secured the long-term future of highly rated youngster Moussa Koné, who has signed a contract extension until 2029 despite strong interest from several of Europe’s biggest clubs.
The 17-year-old Spanish-Malian attacking midfielder, widely known as “El Pequeño” and nicknamed “Aguya”, has been linked with moves to Real Madrid, Atlético Madrid, Juventus, Manchester City and Paris Saint-Germain in recent months.
However, the teenager has opted to continue his development with the Spanish club.
His new deal includes a reported €50 million release clause, reflecting Villarreal’s belief in his potential and their determination to keep hold of one of their most promising academy talents.
Speaking in an exclusive interview, his agent Modibo Sissoko, also known as “Van”, explained how the agreement was reached and why the player chose stability over a potential early move elsewhere.
“We had been in discussions for several weeks. We reached an agreement, and Moussa has finally extended his contract with Villarreal until 2029. The player has already joined the Juvenil A team.
“Next year, he will be with the C, B, and Senior teams to continue his development. They increased his salary. But each time he moves up to a higher-level team, the club pays a fee. That’s what the agreement stipulates.”
Koné has already progressed steadily through Villarreal’s youth system.
At Juvenil B level, he registered two goals and four assists in 22 appearances before earning promotion to Juvenil A, where he continues his development alongside fellow youngster Moussa Traoré.
His agent believes the pathway laid out by Villarreal is central to his growth, with a clear long-term plan aimed at first-team football rather than a rushed move abroad.
“They want Moussa to reach the first team. That’s good for the player, who will have to continue working to achieve that goal. But it will happen step by step and very naturally. Moussa has great potential, promising talent, and is a player with great potential.
“He’s one of the best young players in Spain today, and the goal is to let him continue his development at Villarreal, despite interest from other teams.”
Despite Villarreal’s firm stance, interest from elite European clubs has not disappeared.
Real Madrid are still monitoring his progress, while Juventus are also said to remain attentive to his situation.
However, the Spanish side have moved decisively to protect their asset with a long-term contract and a significant release clause.
“There are many clubs that are still interested in him, such as Juventus and Real Madrid among others… Despite everything, we decided that he should continue with CF Villarreal, and then we’ll see what happens next.”
For Villarreal, the deal represents both a sporting and strategic move as they aim to develop one of Africa’s emerging young talents within their system.
