Barcelona have reportedly set their sights on Brazilian defender Natan, who has a €70 million release clause in Flamengo contract.
According to a report by Spanish publication Sport, Barcelona are keeping tabs on Natan over a possible move in the future. The 20-year-old Brazilian defender has a €70 million release clause in his contract with Flamengo.
Natan joined the Flamengo academy in 2016 and made swift progress in the youth setup of the Brazilian club before making grade in the first-team setup last year. After making his senior bow in September, the 20-year-old defender has gone on to make 15 further appearances for Rubro-Negro before joining Red Bull Bragantino on loan in March.
The report states that Red Bull Bragantino have “established a price of €3.4 million for 50 percent of his economic rights once he’s played 20 games.” Flamengo, though, have embedded a release clause worth €70 million in his deal. His progress and technical abilities, in particular, seem to have endeared him to Barcelona.
Barcelona have been reported to be in the market for a centre-back ahead of the summer transfer window and it has been suggested that Eric Garcia is set to join them on a free transfer. However, it looks like the Blaugrana are keen on signing a second central defender, and for good reason.
While youngsters Ronald Araujo and Oscar Mingueza have impressed this season, the inconsistent performances of Clement Lenglet and Samuel Umtiti have left a lot to be desired. In addition, veteran defender Gerard Pique is in the twilight of his career, meaning it is prudent for Barcelona to scour the possibility of signing another centre-back this summer.
To that end, Ibrahima Konate has emerged as a possible target, with Natan now emerging on their radar as well. The fact that the 20-year-old Brazilian defender is adept on the ball and has also showcased fine leadership abilities means that he could be a solid fit in Barcelona’s first-team.
However, his €70 million valuation could well prove to be a stumbling block for a club that has had its fair share of financial troubles in recent times. Nevertheless, it looks like for now, Natan is being monitored by Barcelona and it remains to be seen if they end up launching the offensive for him in the summer transfer window.
