If anything is clear when it comes to Deco's transfer policies at FC Barcelona, it's that he's always thinking two steps ahead in the Brazilian market. And right now, all eyes are locked onto Curitiba. If you thought the trip to Brazil for the weekend was a casual one, it wasn't. Barcelona's head scout Joao Amaral was in the stands at Arena da Baixada to see the 19-year-old defensive talent Arthur Dias as Athletico Paranaense pulled off a 2-1 win over Bahia.
According to Deco the use of Dias is a response to a clear failing in the market: the desperate scarcity of world-class, left-footed defenders.
The perfect fit for Hansi Flick's system
We know the requirements of Hansi Flick's style of play. The high line is non-negotiable. You need center-backs who are fast, physically dominant, and completely unflappable on the ball. Arthur Dias ticks every single box.
Is it time to bring him to the first team? His talent is undeniable. Only 19, he has already played 50 games for the first team and combines brute force that South American defenders are known for with a touch of silky distribution that wouldn't be out of place for a Barcelona defender.
But here's the truth, the cat's out of the bag.
A heated bidding war brewing
Barcelona aren't the only big club chasing the Brazilan talent. Tottenham recently made an initial attempt at trying to buy 80 percent of his economic rights from Athletico Paranaense for a fee of 21million, which was swiftly rejected. Athletico Paranaense know what they've got in this player, and have slapped a valuation of 30 million on him.
For a club with money constraints, 30 million is a huge spend. But with the whole of Europe short on left-footed centre-backs, it is a generous ask. Don't forget when Barca were pondering over many left footed centre-backs? It's a ruthless market and waiting will only elevate Dias' asking price.
Deco's all-important man Amaral has the foundations lined up. If Barca indeed desire a generational talent fit for Flick's high octane press, they may have to make a move before the rest of Europe do.
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