FC Barcelona continue to scout the market in search of the next big stars of tomorrow. The Catalan giants are renowned for their possession of great young talents, but not all of them are homegrown. As such, the Barcelona eyes remain vigilant even across the borders of Europe.
Hailing from Argentina, a new face emerges that excites the footballing world. 17-year-old Claudio Echeverri is the latest of names to make heads turn, and this particular gem has a very good claim as to why he is so followed. A player for River Plate, he has already made 5 first-team appearances this season.
However, his true moment to shine came with the Under-17 Argentine National team. Both in the South American contest as well as the U-17 FIFA World Cup in Indonesia, the young Argentinean shined. One game in particular that will remain immortalized with his name is the one against Brazil, in which he scored a spectacular hat trick.
From among the teams that remain interested in him, FC Barcelona is a standout. La Blaugrana consider him a great talent for the future and his unique style as an attacking midfielder reportedly appeals to them. As such, they have already possibly conjured up a formula for his acquisition should they go for it.
According to SPORT, Barcelona are willing to offer River Plate a transfer fee that exceeds his release clause. Currently set at €25 million, the player’s release clause is one that most clubs would be willing to meet for his talents. Barcelona, on the other hand, are willing to go up to €30 million for him.
However, there is a catch. Barça are willing to pay more than his release clause on the simple basis of them being allowed to do so over multiple installments.
The financial restrictions on La Blaugrana make it more difficult to finalize payments upfront, and as such, they have to resort to means over installments or deferments.
Regardless, there is consensus from both the club and the player reportedly. Barcelona believe the youngster would be a great prodigal addition to the team, while young Claudio Echeverri himself idolized both Lionel Messi and Barcelona growing up.
Moreover, his entourage is speculated to be in favor of the move as well. His contract is set to end in December of 2024, but his representatives would be willing to finalize an agreement in January as well to make the move materialize in the summer.
