FC Barcelona youth recruitment strategy

FC Barcelona has moved to secure young talent as part of a long-term recruitment strategy. On September 19, 2026, the club finalized a contract with 16-year-old Portuguese offensive midfielder Dany Freire, who joined the La Masia academy after completing trials in Catalonia. Freire, who was raised in Luxembourg and previously played for Racing FC Union, is expected to join the Juvenil B squad. To comply with international transfer regulations, the player was set to officially sign his contract upon turning 16.

In addition to Freire, the club has seen significant progress with forward Mayssa Bahava. Bahava has become the youngest debutant in Liga F history, appearing for the club at 15 years, 7 months, and 14 days old. A former star for Morocco’s U17 national team, the Málaga-born forward joined Barcelona three years ago after being scouted via Facebook and is noted by technical staff for her speed, power, and pressing ability.

Following these developments, the club has intensified its scouting efforts. Head of scouting Joao Amaral has been monitoring 19-year-old Brazilian center-back Arthur Dias of Athletico Paranaense. Dias, a left-footed defender who has received a Brazilian national team call-up, is reportedly a target for several major European clubs, including Barcelona, Tottenham, and Bayer Leverkusen. To further this pursuit, Amaral recently traveled to Brazil to personally observe Dias during a match against Bahia, viewing him as a high-potential, affordable option that fits Hansi Flick’s tactical requirements for ball progression.

In related squad management, sporting director Deco has reportedly shifted the club’s stance regarding midfielder Marc Casadó. Although the player was previously considered a potential candidate for a sale worth approximately 30 million euros in January, a recent injury has led the club to prioritize his recovery and avoid negotiating under unfavorable conditions.