Boubacar Kamara: 6 Things to Know About the Coveted Marseille Defender

The French conveyor belt of young talent has a new star in 20-year-old Marseille defender Boubacar Kamara.

The French youngster has earned rave reviews for his performances this term.

As the summer transfer window looms large (global pandemic permitting), rumours of the young centre back moving away from the Stade Velodrome continue to hot up. The likes of Premier League clubs Chelsea and Manchester City, as well as Spanish against Real Madrid have all been linked with this prodigious talent.

With the Ligue 1 wonderkid being touted for a move abroad, let's have a look at what he's all about...

'New Thiago Silva?'

The defender has drawn comparisons to the veteran PSG defender Thiago Silva in recent times.

The Brazilian has been one of the best defenders in both France and in Europe since his arrival at the Parc des Princes from AC Milan in 2012.

While Kamara may have his work cut out living up to the comparison with the multiple trophy-winning defender, the early signs are promising.

As is the way with comparisons of young players, they are often made too soon and can often be a burden. Yet, Kamara's ability to bring the ball out from the back with a sense of calm and purpose belies his years.

Mixed with his height and imposing defensive prowess, Kamara has all the tools to become one of the top talents in Europe.

Versatile Defensive Player

Despite impressing largely as a central defender, the youngster is also able to competently take on other roles.

While the Frenchman was eased into the starting XI in the central midfield role alongside the hugely experienced Luiz Gustavo last term, this season has seen him truly stamp his authority on the first-team squad as a centre back, or even on the left.

Although his best position is yet to be nailed down, his versatility may be beneficial to those interested parties.

Despite his age, Boubacar actually made his debut four years ago in a Coupe de Ligue tie and has experience playing in the Europa League.

France Youth International

Such is the talent at Didier Deschamps disposal, it would appear he is no closer to making the step up to senior international level. Equally, at youth level, he is yet to cement himself into a starting berth due to the immense catalogue of young players emerging from France.

For the France Under-21 side, Kamara has had to compete for a place alongside the likes of Dayot Upamecano, Ibrahima Konate, Jean-Clair Todibo and Benoit Badiashile among many others.

Thus far, the Marseille man has only made five appearances for the Under-21 side, yet as his status continues to rise, perhaps he can rubber-stamp his place in the side and push for inclusion in the highly competitive senior squad.

Who Wants Him?

The likes of Chelsea, Manchester City and West Ham have all been rumoured to be taking an interest, as well as Real Madrid.

Both Chelsea and Manchester City are crying out for a defensive-minded player and may be looking for a young, relative bargain rather than paying a premium this summer.

Undoubtedly any potential side would be taking on a gifted player, who has two goals and two assists in all competitions this season.

Ankle Injuries

Whenever a player is earmarked for a move, his medical history becomes vitally important.

While never being kept out of the side for long, Kamara suffered two ankle injuries in the 2017/18 season which sidelined him for two brief spells.

Although the injuries have not resurfaced for the young man, any potential doubts over his fitness in the future may perhaps inhibit any transfers. If injury does not curtail his promising career, he will go on to have a successful future that his talent deserves.

Price Tag

The future star may not cost an arm and a leg, but he certainly won't come cheap. As is the way with the current market, a player who's yet to turn 21 will cost in the region of £28m according to reports.

While this is pocket change for some of Europe's richest clubs, it is yet to be seen how the impact of coronavirus will play out in the transfer market.

In the case of Kamara, his high potential and rapidly improving performances will mean that fee could quickly rise sharply, which may be enough to force clubs to act now.

Source : 90min