Barça's scouting drive forces early chase of six global prodigies
FC Barcelona have decided not to wait for their transfer targets to become unaffordable, with the club’s scouting department, led by Deco and Joao Amaral, widening its search far beyond La Masia. The Mercato Barça strategy now focuses on six major talents, after already attracting Hamza Abdelkarim and Jesse Bisiwu.
Premier‑league prospects on Barça’s radar
One of the hottest cases involves 16‑year‑old JJ Gabriel, who is linked with Manchester United. The forward has refused to sign his first professional contract, prompting interest from Barcelona, Real Madrid, Bayern Munich and Paris Saint‑Germain. United’s camp is reportedly prepared to meet a minimum investment of €10 million over three seasons, covering salary, bonuses and commissions.
Another Premier‑league name is 19‑year‑old Josh King, who has impressed Fulham under Álvaro Arbeloa. With two goals in six appearances and more than 500 minutes played, King is contracted until 2029 and is being chased by Chelsea, Liverpool, Borussia Dortmund and Atlético de Madrid, while Barça remain in pursuit.
Defensive and South‑American targets
In defence, Barcelona have identified 19‑year‑old Arthur Dias, a 1.88‑metre left‑footed centre‑back who captained Brazil’s U20 side to the 2025 South American Championship. He made his senior debut under Carlo Ancelotti during the last international break against Australia and India.
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In Brazil, Deco monitors 16‑year‑old Eduardo Conceição of Palmeiras. Although contacts have been made, the club’s demands of several tens of millions of euros and competition from English clubs have slowed Barcelona’s progress.
From Scandinavia, the Blaugrana have scouted 15‑year‑old Gabriel Rajkovic of Vålerenga, who became the youngest scorer in the Norwegian league at 15 years, five months and 15 days. Arsenal, Chelsea and Manchester United are also watching him.
Finally, MLS sensation Cavan Sullivan, 17, of Philadelphia Union, has become the youngest United States international ever, with seven goals and twelve assists. Manchester City have already secured a contractual agreement for his arrival when he turns 18 in September 2027.
Barça’s policy mirrors the earlier recruitment of Branimir Mlacic, aiming to lock in talent before market values soar, a necessary step to compete with Europe’s financial powerhouses.