Barcelona striker target says he wants to join Chelsea

Barcelona's striker target, Karl Etta Eyong, has hinted he would prefer a move to the Premier League, specifically Chelsea, rather than to Catalonia. 

The 22-year-old was linked with a move to the Blaugrana last summer. However, Barcelona's finances prevented them from completing the deal. He joined Levante instead. 

The former Villarreal man has been in inspired form, scoring six league goals in 12 LALIGA matches for Granotes this season. Hence, the links to top European clubs, including Barcelona, have endured. 

Speaking in a recent interview, the young striker acknowledged Barcelona's interest but brushed it off, insisting that he remains focused on Levante. 

“I’m really flattered (to be linked with Barcelona). It means so much because it shows my hard work is paying off,” he said, per Football Espana. “But I just have to continue on my journey with Levante and then see what happens in the future.”

The Cameroonian explained that he sees his future in the Premier League, as he had already crossed LALIGA off his wish list. 

“I have already achieved my dream of playing in La Liga, and my other dream is to one day play in the Premier League,” he continued. 

“I think I have the quality to thrive in the Premier League and that my style is well-suited to English football. I am physically strong and can play.”

“I love watching Premier League matches. My favourite period is the Boxing Day games. You can see the players give everything – 200%! What I love about the Premier League is that every game feels important. But for now, my focus is just on Levante, and I am ignoring all other news.”

Karl also revealed that he grew up supporting Chelsea and dreams of playing for the two-time Champions League winners sometime in the future.

“Growing up, Chelsea was the English team I probably watched the most because of Drogba, and Eto’o was there a year as well.”

“Chelsea have often signed incredible African players. There are so many big clubs in England, but as for (joining) Chelsea, why not? It would be a dream for me to play for Chelsea.”