Barcelona director a big admirer of Brazilian forward set to join Ligue 1 giants

Brazil has produced a series of top talents in recent years, most of who have gone to Europe to achieve bigger things while some have failed.

Barcelona, to that end, have been the unfortunate victim of Brazilians failing to make it big in Europe, with the recent signings of Malcom, Arthur Melo, and Vitor Roque, who is currently on loan at Real Betis.

Nevertheless, the club continue to keep a close eye on the Brazilian market and as reports suggest, it appears one of Barça’s key targets in Brazil is set to make a move to Europe.

Rayan set to join Lyon

As reported by Diario SPORT, the player in question is Rayan, the Vasco da Gama star set for a move to Olympique Lyon.

The French outfit has submitted an official bid of €14 million and due to the club’s ownership links, the move should be sanctioned quite easily.

Indeed, Lyon’s American owner John Textor has a vested interest in Vasco da Gama’s debt with Botafogo, which is also owned by the businessman.

What it means for Barcelona

Rayan’s move to Lyon could be of great interest to Barcelona, whose sporting director Deco has been tracking the player for quite some time now.

Barça even approached Vasco da Gama with a move for Rayan in 2022, but the club rejected their €1 million, citing the player’s higher potential.

Barcelona have had the forward under surveillance but the FFP situation and the emergence of Lamine Yamal stopped them from making any move.

The Catalans are expected to continue monitoring the progress of the young winger, who is known for his physique and imposing presence in the final third.

It now remains to be seen whether or not the youngster can make an instant impact in Europe – something which will definitely raise the eyebrow within the Barcelona camp.