🔎 Scouting Sessions: Barcelona have a diamond on their hands | OneFootball

Every week, we will be highlighting a LaLiga player who deserves your attention.

And here’s why Barcelona should be very excited about a youngster on their books.

Pedri

Barça haven’t offered the best environment for young players to thrive recently but their signing of midfielder Pedri will undoubtedly prove to be a masterstroke.

But who is the Spaniard, what are his strengths and why should he be generating excitement?

History

Born in the Canary Islands, Pedri joined Las Palmas’ youth set-up (aged 15) from local side CF Juventud Laguna and impressed instantly.

The teenage playmaker found himself promoted to the first team by manager Pepe Mel after less than a year, signing a professional four-year contract before his 17th birthday.

He went onto make 37 appearances for the club as they finished 9th, while also becoming the youngest goalscorer in the club’s history.

Style of play

Spain have produced their fair share of nimble, technical midfielders and Pedri is no different, boasting grace in possession and impressive ball-carrying ability from central areas.

The low-socked teenager is deceptively quick and enjoys taking players on but also knows when to pass should opportunities present themselves.

Most young players endure inconsistent spells when breaking into senior football but the midfielder was a clear standout among his Las Palmas team-mates last season:

Playing in several different positions against experienced professionals didn’t affect his level, it simply elevated it.

Future prospects

Pedri is extremely talented but forcing him into this Barcelona side seems unnecessary.

Ronald Koeman already has Ansu Fati and Philippe Coutinho fulfilling left side and midfield spots, while Riqui Puig has been deemed surplus to requirements.

Las Palmas and PSV Eindhoven have seen loan bids turned down, which hints to Barça wanting to keep the teenager in LaLiga where regular minutes (at a higher level) could aid his development massively.