Barcelona confirm the signing of talented Brazilian forward

Barcelona have one of the best defensive records in Europe’s top five leagues, having kept 17 clean sheets in 23 La Liga games this season. But their struggles going forward in recent weeks have seen them get knocked out of the Europa League at the hands of Manchester United, as well as drop two points at Almeria over the weekend.

Robert Lewandowski appears to have lost his golden scoring touch since the World Cup break, while Ousmane Dembele’s injury has further highlighted the lack of depth in forward areas.

Xavi will have to wait until the summer for new attacking additions for the first-team, but the Blaugrana have wasted no time in strengthening their options at the youth level.

Barcelona have confirmed the signing of Ronaldinho’s son, Joao Mendes. The former Cruzeiro talent, who was unveiled on Thursday, will join the club’s La Masia academy to continue his development with the U-19 side.

Barcelona confirm the signing of talented Brazilian forward Joao Mendes

He follows in his father’s footsteps after a successful trial with the Spanish giants. Ronaldinho made 207 appearances for Barca and lifted two La Liga titles and the Champions League. Due to his father’s legacy, Mendes’s arrival has generated plenty of interest amongst the Barcelona faithful. As such, apart from impressing coaches at La Masia, the starlet will also be tasked with handling the weight of expectations carefully.

Mendes might not be the only promising Brazilian signing ahead of the new season, with the Catalan outfit also understood to be interested in acquiring Vitor Roque from Athletico Paranaense.

The 18-year-old finished as the joint-top scorer at the 2023 South American U-20 Championship and is thought to be attracting interest from several European clubs.  However, speaking to Spanish outlet Sport, Roque suggested Barcelona would be an ideal destination for him.

Further, Xavi could have another exciting attacking prospect on his hands next season in Abde Ezzalzoulie. The Moroccan forward is enjoying an encouraging loan spell at Osasuna. On Wednesday, he scored an incredible solo goal against Athletic Bilbao in the Copa del Rey semi-final first leg.