Portuguese team offer €2.7 million for Ecuadorian midfield talent on Barcelona’s radar

Following the departure of former captain Sergio Busquets, Barcelona have been actively searching the market for defensive midfield reinforcements, and their monetary constraints have forced them to look at budget-friendly options.

A positive consequence of this is that the club has been keeping very sharp eyes out on young prospects from across the world, one of whom is 19-year-old Ecuadorian midfielder Oscar Zambrano.

According to new reports from journalist Stalin Cobena, who first stated that Zambrano is an option for Barcelona, more heads have been turning for the teenager.

A player in demand

Cobena says that a club in Portugal, the name is undisclosed as of yet, have offered $3 million (€2.7 million) for Zambrano. His current side LDU Quito have set a price tag of $5 million (€4.5 million) on the youngster.

It was previously reported that Barcelona were recommended to keep an eye out for the Ecuadorian by Ronald Araujo’s agent. He is a real option for the Catalans, despite having since signed Oriol Romeu to bolster the defensive midfield position. However, other clubs are also on the hunt.

Who exactly is Oscar Zambrano?

As previously reported by Mundo Deportivo, Zambrano especially turned heads after his performances at the U20 World Cup which impressed scouts. He reportedly idolised Busquets and Andres Iniesta growing up.

Playing as a deep-lying midfielder, he has been a key member of LDU Quito’s first team despite his youth, his vision pass execution particularly shining through. His anticipation and tenacity have also been particularly impressive.

Considering the growing interest in his services, Barcelona may have to hurry and make a decision on whether they want to bring him across the pond.

He could be a wonderful option to strengthen the B team before eventually finding his way into the first team dynamics.