Barcelona’s recruitment strategy has increasingly centred on identifying tomorrow’s stars long before Europe’s elite enter the race.
The Catalan club have accelerated their global scouting efforts this season, with Deco placing particular emphasis on South America’s rising generation.
Barca’s technical department have been especially active around youth international tournaments, viewing them as opportunities to spot leadership, maturity and adaptability under pressure.
With financial restrictions still shaping the club’s long-term planning, the focus on affordable but high-upside teenagers has become more important than ever.
And as the Under-17 World Cup in Qatar reaches its decisive stages, Barcelona’s attention has naturally shifted toward the competition’s standout performers.
Reports emerging from Brazil claim that the Catalan giants have set their sights on another young prodigy, as a fresh name enters the frame.
Barcelona are monitoring 17-year-old Brazilian midfielder Ze Lucas, who has been one of the most eye-catching figures at the tournament.
According to Globo, relayed by AS, the club’s scouts have received detailed briefings on the player’s performances and development as he continues to build momentum on the international stage.
The teenager is attracting widespread attention, and the timing of Barcelona’s interest coincides with a crucial moment for his club, Sport Recife.
The Brazilian side have reportedly dispatched their sporting director to Qatar with a single objective: to encourage negotiations for their prized academy talent.
Sport Recife’s looming financial problems mean a sale is considered not only possible but increasingly likely.
Ze Lucas is valued at around €15 million, and while interest has already materialised, the club previously rejected bids close to €12 million for falling short of expectations.
Their stance reflects both the player’s potential and the need to maximise revenue amid a difficult economic outlook.
Within Barcelona, Deco and the recruitment team have received the proposal like many others.
Sources insist that no formal steps have yet been taken, but Brazilian media continue to maintain that Barca are tracking every detail of Ze Lucas’ progress in Qatar and that his name remains firmly on their list of monitored prospects.
At the U17 World Cup, Ze Lucas has showcased his leadership by captaining Brazil through the group stage.
He has started every match, delivering one assist and establishing himself as a key presence in midfield.
Brazil have already sealed their place in the round of 16, where they face Paraguay today.
His club situation paints a contrasting picture: Sport Recife have been mathematically relegated after collecting just 17 points from 32 matches.
Individually, Ze Lucas has endured a modest statistical year with no goals or assists recorded in 2025, yet scouts remain convinced that his technique, composure and leadership mark him as a long-term investment.
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