FC Barcelona would be closely following a revalued 'jewel' of Brazilian football

One of the most prominent cases suggesting that FC Barcelona intends to address the upcoming summer transfer market is the search for a 'top' left winger who can provide depth to a position where Raphinha, despite not being his natural position, is having an exceptional performance this season. And why wouldn't he? The Porto Alegre native is showing truly impressive offensive numbers.

With this need in mind, star names like Khvicha Kvaratskhelia from Napoli and Nico Williams from Athletic Club have started to be mentioned. However, although they seemingly hold an important place on Barcelona's wish list, it is evident that neither of the two options would be easy transfers to make, with both operations being economically complex to pull off, especially the Georgian player, presenting certain complexities when negotiating with two teams that seem unwilling to let go of their stars easily.

Faced with this situation, Barcelona is likely considering various alternatives, perhaps less publicized but equally valuable in sporting terms, that can bring quality to the left wing and be versatile in other positions in the offensive front. In fact, there has been mention from the Culés of the option to add a new name to strengthen the attack. A player who is currently outside European football but has had a brief experience in it.

Barça is closely monitoring a 'jewel' from Botafogo

As reported by the 'SPORT' newspaper, Barcelona is interested in knowing the situation of Luiz Henrique, a player who is currently one of the main figures at Botafogo, having a stellar season with 12 goals and six assists in 53 matches.

Luiz Henrique was a key player in helping 'Fogo' win the 2024 Copa Libertadores, being named the 'MVP' of the final, where he scored a goal and won a penalty that led to another. Additionally, his team is in contention for the title in the Brasileirão.

It is important to note that Luiz Henrique, who previously played for Real Betis, did not manage to showcase all his potential as he did during his time at Fluminense, although he showed glimpses of his great quality. He is a natural right winger but can also play on the left flank and even as an interior on both sides, making him an interesting addition for his incisive, powerful, and highly disruptive one-on-one play, with remarkable dribbling ability and effective goal-scoring prowess.

Barcelona had Luiz Henrique on their radar before

In this context, it is relevant to mention that Barcelona's interest in the player is not new, as they were closely monitoring him in 2022. Apparently, there is even a scouting report in the technical secretary's records highlighting his potential. However, at that time, the Blaugrana opted to acquire the services of Raphinha, who arrived from Leeds United for €58 million and is currently one of the standout names in the Catalan team.

In this sense, it will be interesting to see if Barcelona now decides to bet on a player with significant potential, still young (only 23 years old), and whose market value reference, according to 'Transfermarkt' (€16 million), suggests he could have an affordable transfer price.