Lionel Messi still has a voice and a vote in the blaugrana universe. Although he now lives in the United States, his influence at Barça hasn't diminished. When the "10" speaks, people at Camp Nou listen closely.
That's why his opinion on Barça's next signing has been especially well received. It's about a young Argentine defender who has recently impressed with the Albiceleste. His name is already being strongly discussed in the offices of Joan Laporta and Deco.
Messi with Barça | en.carpetasfcb.com
An Argentine center back only 23 years old on the radar
The blaugrana club is looking to renew its defense for the future. With the possible departures of Ronald Araújo and Andreas Christensen, it's urgent to find reliable replacements. In this context, Barça has set its sights on South America.
The priority is a young center back, with room to grow and a competitive DNA. According to sources close to the sporting management, there's one who stands out above the rest. He has experience in Argentina and is already an international with the senior national team.
Ronald Araujo during a training session with Barça | @FCBarcelona
What the coaching staff likes most is his ability to play the ball out from the back. His aerial game, strength in duels, and tactical maturity despite his youth also stand out. In short, he's a profile that fits the style demanded at Camp Nou.
The deal would be viable from an economic standpoint. His market value is between €12 and €15 million. That's a reasonable investment considering his potential.
Hansi Flick | @FCBarcelona
The complication lies in his sporting rights
He currently plays on loan at a historic Argentine club, but his rights partly belong to a Brazilian club. This particularity complicates negotiations a bit. An agreement among three parties will be necessary to unlock his transfer.
Even so, Barça considers him a top priority if the departure of one of its starting center backs is confirmed. There aren't any open negotiations yet, but his name is very present in the offices at Camp Nou.
The most surprising thing is that Messi has also given his approval. They met during the last Argentine national team camp. The "10" was pleasantly surprised by his performance and attitude.
He sees him as a player ready to make the leap to Europe. He believes he would fit into Barça's philosophy, both for his talent and mentality. That support has strengthened the club's interest in signing him.
Leo Messi | @leomessi
Messi sees in him a future leader for the defense
In private conversations, Messi has recommended signing him. He assures that he has everything needed to succeed at Camp Nou. As an Argentine, he welcomes the idea of another compatriot continuing the legacy he left behind.
There is also willingness from the player's camp. They know that joining Barça would be a huge step in his career. The possibility of following in Messi's footsteps is an extra motivation.
Finally, the name that has excited both Messi and Barça is Kevin Lomónaco. At just 23 years old, the center back has shown he's ready for the big leap. At Independiente, he has performed at a high level, and his loan from RB Bragantino has been key to his development.
Now, all that's left is for the clubs to reach an agreement to finalize the deal. If it happens, Lomónaco will be the new Argentine in the culé locker room. He'll do so with the best possible endorsement: Leo Messi's.
