FC Barcelona has received a very special message in recent days. Leo Messi, always alert to the movements of his former club, has personally recommended to Joan Laporta the incorporation of a young talent who has amazed in Argentina. "He's really good, you need him," the world champion reportedly insisted in his conversation with the Barça leadership.
The advice hasn't fallen on deaf ears. In the offices of Camp Nou, his opinion still carries special weight, especially when it comes to detecting new stars who can define an era.
A Profile That Enchants Barça
The footballer in question fits perfectly into the model that Barça wants to build for the future. He possesses vision, technique, dribbling ability, and a personality unusual for his age. Traits that remind of other great talents who succeeded at Camp Nou from a very young age.
Hansi Flick and Deco had already received positive reports about his progression. But after Messi's advice, the priority for this player has climbed several steps on the list of targets for the next transfer market.
His most recent performance in a major classic of his country has further sparked interest. At just 17 years old, he carried the team on his back in one of the most tense matches in South America. He did it with a free-kick goal that has gone around the world.
It's uncommon to see such a young footballer take on responsibilities of that magnitude. His competitive character, his composure, and his technical quality have caused international spotlights to focus on him immediately.
An Increasingly Competitive Market
Barça isn't the only club closely following this emerging talent. Several Premier League giants have already shown real interest in signing him. Top-tier clubs are willing to enter a bidding war for his incorporation as soon as the market opens.
The main obstacle is his release clause, set at 45 million euros. An elevated figure for a club like Barça, which is still focused on optimizing its resources before embarking on operations of this magnitude.
Laporta and Deco Analyze the Scenario
Barcelona's transfer policy in recent years clearly bets on young players with international projection. Incorporations like Pedri, Ronald Araújo, or Lamine Yamal have shown that anticipation is key to building solid projects.
In this case, Barça is considering the possibility of acting quickly. Getting ahead of other offers and betting on a player who, over time, could become one of the references of the next generation.
The footballer who has received Leo Messi's blessing is none other than Franco Mastantuono. The River Plate gem, after his exhibition in the Argentine Superclásico, is already among Barça's priority targets. They seek to secure his talent before it's too late.