Barcelona transfer rumours: Blaugrana 'closely monitoring' Brazilian wonderkid with just 17 senior appearances

Barcelona are reportedly interested in signing Fluminense youngster Riquelme Felipe. 

The Blaugrana recently recruited 19-year-old attacker Roony Bardghji from Danish side FC Copenhagen.

Barcelona appear keen to continue their strategy of signing promising young talents, partly because their economic situation prevents them from spending too lavishly on established stars.

The club's sporting director Deco previously mentioned in an interview with Romario that Riquelme was among the prospects on his radar.

Barcelona keeping tabs on Riquelme

According to Mundo Deportivo, the Catalan giants have been keeping a close eye on the 18-year-old's progress for the past year.

Riquelme has a contract until March 2028, but a clause in his deal could open the door for Barcelona to secure his signature.

The report claims that the teenager's contract will only run until March 2026 for clubs outside of Brazil. 

Barcelona will sense the chance to sign a highly-rated talent for a relatively small fee, although they will have to be wary of potential competition from other European teams.

It is unclear whether Barcelona view him as a possible signing for the B team or a backup option for their current wide options of Lamine Yamal and Raphinha. 

Who is Barcelona target Riquelme Felipe?

Riquelme, who was named after legendary footballer Juan Roman Riquelme, worked his way through Fluminense's youth ranks before making his senior debut in January.

The attacker has gone on to make a total of 17 appearances for the first team, although he has only featured in two matches in the Brazilian top flight.

Riquelme has developed a reputation as a strong dribbler who is adept at linking up with his teammates in the final third. 

The promising talent has tended to play off the right flank on his favoured left foot, although he is also capable of operating on the opposite wing.