Barcelona set to make an official offer of €12-15m for 19-year-old Santos prospect

Barcelona's quest for a long-term left-back solution has taken another intriguing direction. According to new reports from Diario do Peixe, also reported by Mundo Deportivo, the Catalan club is now focusing on one of Brazil's most promising young defenders. 

Recent information from Brazil indicates that Barcelona is actively considering signing Joao Victor Souza, a 19-year-old left-back currently excelling at Santos.

The club's desire to reinforce the left flank has been evident for months. 

Alejandro Grimaldo, a former La Masia player and one of Bayer Leverkusen’s top performers last season, has been considered as a potential candidate. 

Nevertheless, Barcelona seems intent on broadening their options, with Souza rapidly becoming a significant point of interest within the sporting department

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Barcelona are preparing an offer

Brazilian sources indicate that Barcelona is preparing a formal bid between €12 and €15 million to acquire the young player. 

His profile has attracted interest from several clubs for a while, with teams from the Netherlands and other parts of Europe having attempted to sign him last summer. 

Recently, Bayern Munich has also shown interest, indicating a potential bidding war for one of Brazil's most promising young full-backs.

The situation is even more noteworthy due to Santos' willingness to welcome a Barcelona representative in person to expedite negotiations. 

Meanwhile, Souza’s agent, Giuliano Bertolucci, is reportedly in Europe, ready to proceed with discussions once the official offer is made.

Despite being just 19, Joao Victor Souza has already made a mark in Santos’ first team, with 26 senior appearances, one goal, and two assists. 

His contract is valid until the end of 2028, and his performances at the 2023 U-17 World Cup have further solidified his status as one of Brazil’s emerging talents.