The U17 World Cup Sensation: Claudio Echeverri and FC Barcelona's Interest

Claudio Echeverri has earned interest from the top clubs in Europe after his performance in the U17 World Cup. Among the top clubs, the most interested one is FC Barcelona.

Xavi is already a fan of the kid.

"The boy is a talent. Beyond the hat-trick he scored against Brazil, he’s a difference-maker, but it’s something for the scouting department."

The feeling is mutual, as the 17-year-old disclosed his dream of playing for Barça in a recent interview.

"As well as River, I would like to play for Barça. I am a big Messi fan and I watched him play there, so they are a team I have followed since I was very young."

Echeverri's contract with River Plate expires in 2024 and the Argentine midfielder has made it clear that there is no chance of renewal.

"I'm not going to renew, but I'm going to stay six months or a year more."

FC Barcelona's Odds of Signing Claudio

The information given forth directly points to the possibility of Claudio in an FC Barcelona shirt next season. Unfortunately, this is only a side of the story.

The release clause listed for the 17-year-old is €25 million. Barcelona's financial situation restricts player signings without the offloading of another player in return. If they don't follow suit, then the Blaugranes might break the law.

Many other clubs are also interested in the youngster notably Manchester City and Chelsea. The financial situation of these clubs is all favorable to sign any player on the planet. Competing against these clubs financially will be impossible for FC Barcelona.

Fabrizio Romano also reported that City are 'working hard' to 'make it happen'.

Fabrizio also added some details regarding the situation in his column for Caught Offside.

"Claudio Echeverri is a brilliant young Argentinian who recently scored a hat-trick against Brazil’s U17, and he’s always mentioned his passion for Barcelona in public. Unfortunately, despite a relatively low release clause, Barça can’t make the deal happen now due to Financial Fair Play so it’s not possible to proceed. Both Manchester City and Chelsea have much better chances to sign the player at this stage, and both Premier League clubs remain keen on making that happen."