A €60m Benfica forward has caught Barcelona’s attention, with scouts keeping a close watch on his performances.
With Lamine Yamal cemented as the right-wing cornerstone and Raphinha facing uncertain futures, Hansi Flick seeks versatile attacking depth to sustain the title charge through a grueling schedule.
Benfica has long served as a talent conveyor belt for Europe’s elite—think João Félix, Enzo Fernández—and one of their current standouts has captivated Deco with his blend of technical finesse, goal-scoring instinct, and high work rate, positioning him high on the Blaugrana’s wishlist.
That attacker is 21-year-old Norwegian forward Andreas Schjelderup, whose emergence has Deco utterly “in love” with his potential to elevate Barcelona’s attack, as reported by Fichajes.
Acquired by Benfica from Nordsjælland in 2023 for €14m, Schjelderup has flourished into a first-team regular this season, notching 6 goals and 8 assists while dazzling with his left-footed trickery and vision.
His €60m release clause looms large, but frustration over inconsistent starts has sparked transfer murmurs, delighting Deco’s recruitment team.
Schjelderup embodies Flick’s ideal profile: ambidextrous flair, explosive pace, and relentless pressing from the right or centrally.
At 6’1″, he offers physicality rare in modern wingers, winning duels and delivering crosses with precision—reminiscent of a young Riyad Mahrez with added grit.
His standout Taça de Portugal strikes against Porto underline Champions League readiness, making him a smart rotation option behind Yamal without disrupting La Masia harmony.
Rivals like Arsenal, Manchester City, and Borussia Dortmund circle, but Schjelderup harbours La Liga ambitions, with Barcelona leading informal talks via Portuguese agents.
Benfica’s firm valuation tests Deco’s negotiation skills amid financial fair play limits, potentially requiring sales like Ansu Fati or Ferran Torres to activate funds.
Securing Schjelderup would underscore Barcelona’s youth revolution—importing primed talents to fuel Flick’s dynasty. Deco’s admiration reflects strategic patience: build around Yamal, not chase superstars.
As Schjelderup’s star ascends at Luz, Camp Nou beckons ever closer.
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