Barcelona could swoop in for 17-year-old wonderkid as Chelsea cool talks – report

With Deco now firmly at the helm as the club’s new sporting director, Barcelona have a greater focus on the Brazilian market thanks to his deep knowledge of the footballing scenes in the area.

The former midfielder already played a key role in the signing of Vitor Roque, who will be arriving at the club next year.

And, Deco has already identified several other talents from the region as future recruits for the Catalan giants, one of whom is Corinthians prodigy Gabriel Moscardo.

Reports earlier this week suggested that the 17-year-old was greatly admired by Deco and the latter wished to sign him, but a move to Chelsea seemed imminent.

Chelsea talks cool down

But, according to Joaquim Piera of SPORT, Chelsea have cooled down negotiations with Corinthians over the signing of Moscardo.

It could leave the doors open for Barcelona to make a swoop for the 17-year-old defensive midfielder.

As per the report, Chelsea’s latest offer for Moscardo was around €21 million plus another €4 million in variables, along with adding a percentage of a future sale.

However, Corinthians are demanding a transfer fee of €30 million for their midfield prodigy, leading to talks cooling down.

Door left open for Barcelona

This development leaves the door ajar for Barcelona to make a play for Moscardo, a player who comes with Deco’s seal of approval.

Despite being just 17 years old, the midfielder has exhibited great attributes and technical abilities while also boasting an impressive physique.

The Brazilian prodigy has displayed tactical maturity beyond his young age while also impressing with his vision and defensive capabilities.

Set to turn 18 later this month, Moscardo will be able to move to Europe in January itself, although Corinthians would like him to stay until June.

Deco already made an attempt to secure his signing between May and June earlier this year, but Financial Fair Play problems acted as a deterrent.

Whether there is leeway to sign Moscardo from Corinthians and if Barcelona do make a move for the teenager come January will thus be interesting to see.