Barcelona eyes 15-year-old Argentinian talent

Barcelona Identifies Potential Star in Argentinian Talent Felipe Esquivel

Barcelona is known for its active involvement in the Latin American market, scouting for the best young talents. One such talent that has caught their eye is Felipe Esquivel, a promising Argentinian starlet who impressed at the under-15 South American Championships.

Rising Talent from River Plate

Esquivel, like many top talents from Argentina, has emerged from the renowned River Plate academy. At just 15 years old, he is a technically gifted forward with a preference for his left foot. His versatility allows him to play on both wings, showcasing his ability to outmaneuver opponents on the field.

Contract Details and Release Clause

According to reports from Sport, Esquivel is currently under contract with River Plate until 2026, with a €30 million release clause. However, any European club interested in signing him will have to wait until at least 2027 when he turns 18 to make a move.

Barcelona’s Interest and Competition

Barcelona faced competition from other top clubs in the pursuit of Esquivel, with Manchester City securing Claudio Echeverri and Franco Mastantuono leaning towards Real Madrid. However, Barcelona’s scouts were particularly impressed by Esquivel’s performance in a match against Brazil, where he scored the decisive goal.

Scouting Network and Emerging Talents

Esquivel was not the only standout player at the tournament, with several other young talents catching the attention of scouts. Players like Juan Riquelme Angulo, Justin Lerma, the Quintero twins, and Zidane Yanez also made waves, highlighting the depth of talent in South America.

Competition Among Top Clubs

The intense competition among top clubs to secure emerging talents like Esquivel underscores the importance of robust scouting networks. Barcelona and other clubs are now more proactive in signing young players before they fully develop, ensuring they have a competitive edge in the transfer market.