19-year-old Benfica gem now being assessed by Barcelona | OneFootball

Photo courtesy: SL Benfica official website

This season, one of the defining characteristics of the FC Barcelona team has been the important role played by players promoted from the youth academy.

In this regard, Barcelona quarry has been integral in providing the first team with reliable talent, with Pau Cubarsi, Marc Guiu, and Hector Fort playing important roles for Xavi after having gotten promoted from the subsidiary.

As these youngsters continue to play an important role in the team, the Catalan club is also keeping an eye on possible transfers that can strengthen Rafa Marquez’s team in the short-term, and possibly the first team in the long term.

In this regard, Mundo Deportivo reports that one of the footballers attracting Barcelona’s attention is the Portuguese talent, Jose Melro, who is currently playing with Benfica.

The 19-year-old has been attracting the attention of top clubs across Europe because of his goal-scoring abilities, as he has scored 15 goals this season, and is the top goal-scorer in the first three young categories of Benfica. He has also already made his debut with the Portuguese U-20 team.

The youngster’s current contract with Benfica ends in 2025, which makes him a prime target not only for Barcelona but for other clubs as well, most notable of them being the French side Lille.

Benfica have not promoted Melro to the first team despite his incredible scoring record because of his contractual situation, and Barcelona believe that getting him now for a reasonable price would be a good market move, especially keeping in view his potential to grow in the future.

Another factor which can impact Barcelona’s pursuit of the youngster is Barcelona Atletic’s season. If Rafa Marquez is able to lead his team into the La Liga Hypermotion, the chances of getting Melro will increase significantly.

On the other hand, Lille are already considering him for a place in the first team, especially as they expect their forward, Jonathan David, to leave this coming summer.