FC Barcelona doesn't limit itself to the European market when it comes to spotting talent with international potential. For some time now, the club has set its sights on South America, especially Brazil. There, they've found what they consider a generational talent in full bloom.
The person in charge of leading this search is Deco, current sporting director, who keeps an active scouting network in the region. Together with his team, he has identified a young midfielder who fits the club's playing model. The first steps are already underway, and the reports are more than promising.
A precocious talent reminiscent of the Yamal phenomenon
The player in question has just turned 17 years old and has already made a solid debut in the Brazilian first division. He currently plays for Sport Recife, one of the historic clubs in the northeast of the country. In his recent performances, he has shown personality, technical precision, and a maturity beyond his years.
From the Joan Gamper Sports City, the reports have been clear: his style is reminiscent of Lamine Yamal. He is an attacking midfielder with excellent game reading, peripheral vision, and exquisite ball control. He also has a great ability to accelerate in the final yards (meters) without losing clarity.
Barça's strategy is to capture young talent before their price skyrockets in the European market. This approach has paid off with prospects like Pedri, Gavi, or Yamal himself. The goal now is to repeat that formula in midfield with a different but equally impactful profile.
Coach Hansi Flick, informed of the moves, views these kinds of medium- and long-term operations favorably. Although the player wouldn't join the first team immediately, his potential is unquestionable. He would be a strategic reinforcement for Barça Atlètic with an eye on the near future.
Discreet but already advanced contacts
President Joan Laporta has given the green light to the operation, convinced of the potential and sporting profitability. Deco is leading the negotiations, working directly with the player's entourage and his representatives. Although there's no finalized agreement, talks are progressing at a good pace.
The Catalan club wants to prevent other major European clubs from entering the race and driving up the transfer fee. The plan is to secure a pre-agreement before the end of the summer, ensuring exclusivity. It's not ruled out that the player could remain on loan in Brazil for another season if conditions allow.
The footballer's entourage views the possibility of joining a club like Barça favorably. They acknowledge the appeal of the project and the club's tradition in developing young talent. The experience of other compatriots like Neymar or Raphinha also weighs in that assessment.
From Brazil, local media have begun to pick up the rumors with growing intensity. The specialized press highlights that the Catalan club has sent scouts to watch matches live. The interest isn't new, but it has now taken shape with the first formal steps.
Barça philosophy: sign before they explode
Barça has strengthened its early detection policy for young global talents in recent years. The idea is clear: sign them while they're still moldable and fit seamlessly into the playing system. This strategy has been internally endorsed by the technical area and Flick himself.
Deco works with a global network of scouts, including former players and local specialists with great knowledge of the field. This approach has allowed the club to get ahead in key signings who've performed from a very young age. With this new gem, Barça aims to repeat that pattern with surgical precision.
The player's profile fits well with the needs of the midfield of the future, with tactical intelligence and refined technique. He doesn't have a dominant physique, but he is very agile, coordinated, and effective in tight spaces. In addition, his competitive character has been highlighted as one of his main virtues.
The operation is still in its early stages, but the plan is clearly outlined. If an agreement is reached, the player is expected to start in the youth categories. From there, his development will pave the way to the first team, as has happened with recent successful cases.
The player's name is Zé Lucas, a midfielder for Sport Recife and one of the greatest talents of his generation. At 17 years old, he is already being followed by clubs like Arsenal or Ajax, but Barça has taken the lead. If everything goes as planned, Zé Lucas will be the next Brazilian gem to wear the blaugrana jersey.