Como is on the verge of a major coup after advancing talks to secure Barcelona’s talented defender in a dramatic transfer development.
The Italian club has already built a reputation for smart recruitment of young talents from Spain’s elite academies, and sees an opportunity amid uncertainty surrounding several of Barça’s brightest prospects.
With Barcelona braced for more departures from their youth ranks, Como senses the moment to strike.
Despite that milestone, he has yet to feature for the first team this term, remaining with Barcelona Atlètic while his contract situation draws attention from abroad.
Mundo Deportivo reports that Como are closely monitoring his progress and have placed him high on their shortlist.
That defender is 18-year-old centre-back Andrés Cuenca, widely regarded as one of La Masia’s most gifted left-footed defensive prospects and already familiar with the elite level after a Champions League debut last season.
Fabregas, now Como head coach, has already overseen the development of young loanees like Real Madrid duo Nico Paz and Jacobo Ramon, both set to return to the Bernabéu next summer after successful spells in Lombardy.
His excellent relationship with Barcelona gives Como a potential edge over other suitors, including AC Milan, who are also tracking Cuenca.
The project on offer is clear: regular Serie A football in a tactically demanding environment, under a coach who understands the La Masia methodology.
From Barcelona’s perspective, the situation is delicate.
The club is already losing defensive talent Mamadou Mbacke to MLS, and Pedro Fernández Dro’s PSG-bound exit has heightened concern over an exodus from the academy.
Cuenca, who could be open to a change of scenery in search of minutes, represents both a sporting asset and a possible source of income.
Whether Barcelona agrees to a permanent sale or pushes for a loan with a buy option will depend on how strongly they view his long-term first-team potential.
For now, Como’s interest is serious, and Fabregas’ influence could prove decisive in prising another gem away from Catalonia.
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