Transfer News: Barcelona set their sights on Victor Bobsin

Barcelona have reportedly set their sights on Victor Bobsin, with the Gremio prodigy coming highly recommended by January arrival Coutinho.

According to Spanish publication Don Balon, January arrival Coutinho has recommended a fellow compatriot to the Barcelona hierarchy as the Catalans continue to scour Brazil for up-and-coming gems. Gremio prodigy Victor Bobsin, also on the radar of Bayern Munich and Borussia Dortmund, has been suggested by Coutinho to Barcelona.

Victor Bobsin has come through the Gremio academy setup – an academy reputed for their ability to bring through superstar talent on consistent basis, none bigger than Ronaldinho, who ruled world football and was one of the cornerstones of Barcelona’s success in the millennium.

Bobsin thrives in defensive midfield as part of a 3-man midfield. The 18-year-old is a true Regista, but is an able player going forward as well. His positioning, physicality and technique is a rare combination, especially considering his aerial ability. His anticipation, ability to occupy space between the defence and midfield and ability to retain ball under pressure makes him a good Regista.

The player is also able to play the role of a quarter-back from defensive midfield, with his vision, anticipation and ability to find teammates with intricate passes.

The 18-year-old came into the limelight in the Sudamerican Under-17 Championship in 2017 – a competition Brazil dominated en route to the title. Bobsin was then a part of the Brazilian team in the under-17 World Cup, where they performed admirably before falling in the semi-finals and ultimately finished third in the competition.

Bobsin is yet to make the senior grade at Gremio but has already started attracting interest from the Bundesliga, with Bayern Munich and Borussia Dortmund eyeing the 18-year-old. Bayern Munich recently had a Gremio graduate among their ranks in Douglas Costa, who has since left for Juventus.

Bobsin though, could be heading to Barcelona. Coutinho has recommended the 18-year-old to the hierarchy, who are looking to beef up their midfield in the summer. A deal with Gremio for Arthur has already been reached and Barcelona could stand in good stead if they wish to negotiate a deal for Bobsin as well.

At 18, Bobsin is unlikely to be thrust straight into the first-team and is likely to be made to play for Barcelona B, who have been struggling this season in Liga Segunda and have recently sacked manager Gerard Lopez.

In the long run, Bobsin has all the qualities to become the replacement for Sergio Busquets. Given Barcelona’s history with recruitment from Brazil, we might just see them go for Bobsin in the summer, all thanks to Coutinho.