Barcelona handed a boost in pursuit of 18-year-old Brazilian midfield prodigy

With Oriol Romeu’s performances dipping after a strong start and the lack of a backup defensive midfielder, Barcelona are already exploring the possibilities in the market to reinforce the position.

One name who appears to be high on the Catalans’ wishlist is Corinthians’ starlet Gabriel Moscardo.

The 18-year-old has been enjoying a breakthrough campaign in Brazil and has already attracted significant interest from top clubs across Europe.

But it appears that Barcelona have received a minor boost in their efforts to sign Moscardo.

Barcelona have more time to move for Moscardo

Indeed, as per Toni Juanmarti of SPORT, Barcelona now have a little more time on their hands to make a move for Moscardo, providing them with a better chance to sign him once their financial situation improves.

Barça’s finances are such that they are not in a position to enter any bidding wars for players and need their targets to be patient for the Catalans to make a move.

That is how they were able to sign Vitor Roque from Athletico Paranaense and rope in Joao Felix and Joao Cancelo on loan last summer.

And even though they are not fully decided on signing Moscardo, Deco sees him as an interesting option and the Blaugrana now have some leeway, in terms of time, to weigh up their options and make an attempt for the 18-year-old.

Previously, Corinthians were understood to be keen on selling their midfield gem by the end of the year to boost their finances. It would have left Barça with little time and room to manoeuvre.

However, now, it appears set that Moscardo will be staying in Brazil at least until the summer of 2024, which gives Barcelona some more time to get their affairs in order.

No guarantee that he will wait

The report adds that Deco was scheduled to meet with the parties involved in signing Gabriel Moscardo during his recent trip to Brazil, but the plans fell through.

The 18-year-old, for his part, hopes that the Catalan club will take the necessary step forward to acquire his services despite the interest from several other big teams.

Barça, though, are not in a position to guarantee him and his entourage that things will work out the way they intend to.

And as such, there is no guarantee that Moscardo will continue to wait and not commit to any other team that wants to sign him.

But, for now, his move away from Corinthians has pushed forward, which Barça perceive as a good sign.