Barcelona is putting the final touches on a €15m deal to bring a dazzling Santos teenage prodigy to the Camp Nou.
For months, the Catalans have been persistent in their search for a long-term solution on the left flank, considering profiles that not only bring immediate impact but also hold substantial upside for the future.
Their growing appetite for South American prospects has prompted executives to engage contacts across Brazil, targeting emerging players who have already shown maturity beyond their years.
The buzz within the club is that a new defender from Santos, valued at up to €15 million, is now closer than ever to a move to Camp Nou—a deal that could reshape Barcelona’s squad composition amid wider European competition for his signature.
The player in question is Joao Victor Souza, Santos’ 19-year-old left-back, whose rise has attracted widespread attention both in Brazil and Europe, as reported by Mundo Deportivo.
Souza burst onto the scene last season, quickly establishing himself in Santos’ senior team and clocking 26 first-team appearances despite his youth.
His blend of defensive positioning, attacking forays, and mature decision-making has made him a standout in the Brazilian league, prompting not only Barcelona but also clubs in the Netherlands and Bayern Munich to monitor his progress closely.
With one goal and two assists already to his name, plus a strong showing at the 2023 U-17 World Cup, Souza is seen as one of Brazil’s next breakout stars.
Negotiations around Souza’s future have accelerated in recent days, with Barcelona reportedly readying a formal bid worth €12-15 million to Santos.
Brazilian media highlight that Santos would welcome direct talks and is preparing to receive a club representative to speed up negotiations.
The player’s agent, Giuliano Bertolucci, is currently in Europe and is expected to move discussions forward upon receipt of Barcelona’s official offer.
Souza’s contract with Santos runs through 2028, signaling a significant commitment should Barcelona secure his arrival.
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