Barcelona sporting director Deco has continued his hunt for the next rising teenage talents, hosting Portuguese winger Cardoso Varela on Monday.
The 16-year-old is currently without a club and Deco met with his agents and the player at Ciutat Esportiva on Monday. Discussions were held about a possible deal, and Varela was then given a tour of their facilities. Sport says they are just one step away from a deal.
Varela's route is curious. Previously one of the most coveted talents in Europe, Varela has made 22 appearances for Portugal under-17s, but after a move from Porto to fourth-tier Croatian side Dinamo Odranski Obrez was blocked by FIFA, he became a free agent.
Atletico Madrid and Real Madrid have reportedly shown interest in the past, while the move to Croatia was intended as a bridge to a move to the Bundesliga. His agent is Andy Bara, who also represents Dani Olmo and Mikayil Faye. His lawyers at the time are said to have demanded €3 million from Porto for Varela to stay at the club before the attempted move.
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