Report: Barcelona reignite interest in 21-year-old Brazilian talent | OneFootball

Report: Barcelona reignite interest in 21-year-old Brazilian talent | OneFootball

Icon: Barca Universal

Barca Universal

·12 Februari 2025

Report: Barcelona reignite interest in 21-year-old Brazilian talent

Gambar artikel:Report: Barcelona reignite interest in 21-year-old Brazilian talent

Barcelona are closely monitoring the progress of Wesley Franca, a 21-year-old right-back who currently plays for Flamengo in Brazil.

According to a recent report from SPORT, the Catalan club has been keeping tabs on the young defender for some time and considers him a potential option to strengthen the right-back position.


Video OneFootball


Interestingly, this is not the first time Barcelona have shown interest in Wesley. Back in 2023, the club explored the possibility of signing him on loan with an option to buy.

However, Flamengo decided to increase his valuation, making the deal difficult to complete. As a result, Barcelona shifted their focus elsewhere and ultimately brought in Julian Araujo.

Barcelona have kept an eye

Despite that setback, Barcelona have continued to monitor Wesley’s progress closely. Now in his third season as a starter for Flamengo, the young right-back has significantly improved his game.

His development has been particularly impressive since former Atletico Madrid defender Filipe Luis took charge of Flamengo. Under his guidance, Wesley has taken his game to the next level, earning widespread recognition.

Gambar artikel:Report: Barcelona reignite interest in 21-year-old Brazilian talent

Barcelona have kept an eye on Wesley. (Photo by Ricardo Moreira/Getty Images)

Barcelona are currently assessing multiple options for the right-back position, as they aim to strengthen their squad in the upcoming summer transfer window.

However, any potential move depends on how well the club manages its ‘exit operation’—offloading players to create financial flexibility for new signings.

Flamengo ready to sell

One of the biggest challenges for Barcelona is Wesley’s rising market value. At 21 years old, he is no longer an under-the-radar talent.

Flamengo, who hold 90% of his economic rights, are ready to sell him in the next transfer window and the club has placed a hefty €35 million price tag on him, viewing his potential sale as one of their top financial priorities.

Flamengo’s board aims to position Wesley among the club’s highest transfer sales, alongside Vinicius Jr and Lucas Paqueta.

Several Premier League clubs have already shown willingness to meet Flamengo’s demands, making competition for the defender fierce. For Barcelona, the situation requires careful evaluation.

While Wesley remains an intriguing option, the club may also explore alternative right-backs in the European market who could offer similar qualities at a more reasonable price.

Lihat jejak penerbit