Barcelona join Premier League clubs in race for Fulham teenager Josh King

Barcelona have joined Chelsea, Manchester United and Liverpool in monitoring Fulham midfielder Josh King, who has attracted attention after scoring twice in five matches this season.

The 19-year-old has emerged as a target for the Catalan club after impressing in his recent appearances, according to English outlet Team Talk. However, Barcelona are one of several major European clubs tracking the player, with English sides currently appearing to lead the race.

Sport reports that Borussia Dortmund, Atletico de Madrid, RB Leipzig and Inter Milan are also interested, while Barcelona are among the latest clubs to be linked with a move for King.

King is under contract at Fulham until 2029, giving the London club a strong negotiating position should any of his suitors make an offer. Fulham are not currently willing to sell the teenager, according to reports.

There could nevertheless be an opportunity for interested clubs if Fulham’s difficult start to the Premier League season results in relegation. Should that happen, King’s chances of leaving during next summer’s transfer window could increase as he looks for a more ambitious project.

King makes breakthrough at Fulham

Born in 2007, King joined Fulham at the age of eight and has spent more than a decade with the club. He was not called up to the first team until 2024.

Fulham’s difficulties in the transfer market have helped create an opening for the youngster, who has taken his chance and established himself in manager Alvaro Arbeloa’s starting line-up.

Playing as an attacking midfielder, King has featured for 427 minutes and scored two goals in only five matches. His performances have made him popular with his team-mates and an important part of the Spanish manager’s plans.

Barcelona’s scouting department continues to track a wide range of young players across European football, and King is the latest name to be added to the club’s growing list of potential future signings.

According to Sport, that list has expanded in recent weeks to include 19-year-old Lucas Herington of Colorado Rapids, 15-year-old Nico Ilichevich and 17-year-old Cavan Sullivan of Philadelphia Union.

King’s emergence has therefore placed him alongside a group of highly rated prospects being considered for Barcelona’s future, although Fulham’s long-term contract with the player means any potential deal would be difficult to negotiate.