Augsburg boss backs USMNT defender Noahkai Banks for top move after Barcelona admission

FC Augsburg sporting director Benni Weber believes that self-confessed FC Barcelona fan Noahkai Banks has the potential to go far in his career.

19-year-old Noahkai Banks has earned plenty of praise for his performances for FC Augsburg this season, having cemented a starting spot at the heart of their defence.

Other clubs are likely taking notice. According to Kicker, the USMNT defender could command a “high transfer fee” this summer if concrete interest emerges.

Augsburg sporting director Benni Weber is well aware of the young centre-back’s potential.

“It’s a great joy to see how he’s developing, how many decisive moments he has. He will probably play for a very big club one day,” Weber told Kicker.

When asked by Bulinews.com about his dream destination in a recent interview, Banks revealed a special connection to FC Barcelona.

“It’s difficult to say. I really enjoy playing in the Bundesliga, to be honest. But there are a lot of great leagues, such as the Premier League, Serie A and La Liga,” he said.

“One of the clubs I idolized while growing up was Barcelona. I think I can say that’s my favorite club. So yeah, maybe one day it would be a dream to play for them, but let’s see what happens,” Banks told Bulinews.com.

With Banks’ contract running until 2029, Augsburg hold a strong negotiating position.

“We have control of the situation; there’s no danger,” Weber stressed.

“Torn” between USA and Germany

For now, Banks faces a difficult decision regarding his international future.

After Augsburg’s 2-0 win over 1. FC Köln last week, the 19-year-old admitted he’s “torn” between representing the United States, who he has represented at youth level, and Germany.

Kicker reports that some people at Augsburg are advising him to choose the United States, probably not least considering the potential impact a World Cup squad place could have on his market value.