FC Barcelona is not a side that lets go of promising talents too easily. The Catalan giants have built their esteemed pedigree and historical success on the basis of youth talent, and they do not forget their roots. It is through the development of promising young talents that Barcelona hopes to one day return to its former glory.
As such, the Catalans have kept their eyes and ears open in terms of scouting. It just so happens that the latest waves being made in the market of transfers concern a player from Argentina. Claudio Echeverri, aged 17, is a player for River Plate and the Under-17 Argentine National team.
Through his latest participation in the U-17 World Cup in Indonesia, the youngster has managed to turn many heads. This also just happens to include FC Barcelona, whose interest in the player is reciprocated by the youngster’s admiration of the club.
In fact, the player has even previously stated his desire to one day represent the Catalan club in the footsteps of his great idol, Lionel Messi. However, it just so happens that Barcelona are set to face great competition for his signature, as per SPORT.
While clubs like Inter Milan and AC Milan, as well as Paris Saint-Germain and Real Madrid, were interested in the player, it seems that the latest suitors are perhaps the strongest contenders. Manchester City and Chelsea from the English Premier League have taken great notice of the player, as per the report.
In terms of financial muscle, Barcelona stands no chance against the Premier League sides. However, they continue to have the preference of the player as a fortunate advantage. It will also remain to be seen just how much of a transfer fee becomes attached to the player’s name.
For now, it is reported that a €20 million price tag is set for Echeverri’s acquisition. This is highlighted by SPORT as an achievable figure even for Barcelona. Ultimately, however, the attacking midfielder will have to wait for the final decision on his future and whether or not Barcelona are even involved in it.
However, it will be almost certain that Barça will hope to use the player’s allegiance to them as an advantage for negotiations. Echeverri, on the other hand, will continue to perform for River Plate, having already featured for the first team as well.
Interestingly, it was his hat trick against Brazil in the recent U-17 World Cup that actually managed to turn his name into a global attraction.
