Barcelona are reportedly ready to begin talks with AS Monaco full-back Caio Henrique over a potential transfer this summer.
According to Spanish journalist Adrian Sanchez, Barcelona are ready to step up their pursuit of AS Monaco left-back Caio Henrique. The Catalans have instructed transfer advisor Deco, who is also the defender’s representative, to begin talks with the player about a possible move to Camp Nou this summer.
Henrique has been with Monaco since 2020, when he left Atletico Madrid on a permanent transfer. He has been a regular in the starting XI for the Ligue 1 club ever since, featuring in 85 matches, scoring two and assisting 18 goals in the process. The Brazilian is known for his attacking qualities but backs it up with his defensive nous and recovery pace.
These qualities have made Caio Henrique an enticing target for Barcelona. The Catalans are in the market for a new left-back this summer as they seek to bring in a player to compete with and cover for Jordi Alba. The veteran is the only natural left-back in the Barcelona senior squad, and Xavi Hernandez is keen on addressing the issue.
Chelsea defender Marcos Alonso has been Barcelona’s top transfer target, but a move for the Spaniard has become complicated due to the Blues’ transfer fee demands. It has forced the Blaugrana to look elsewhere, with Caio Henrique emerging as one of the options that the La Liga behemoths are considering.
Monaco have tied the Brazilian down to a contract until 2025 and are under no pressure to sell this summer. But recent reports indicate that they might consider offloading him for an offer of at least €25 million. And Barcelona are now ready to explore such a possibility as they intend to start negotiations with the player.
Caio Henrique is represented by former Barcelona superstar Deco, who also happens to work for the Catalans as a scout and transfer advisor. The former Portuguese international has already helped the Blaugrana secure the signing of Raphinha this summer. And the club have now asked him to initiate talks with Henrique over a possible move.
Should the defender show any willingness to return to Spain, Barcelona could go ahead with their efforts and begin negotiations with Monaco over a transfer. For now, everything is at a very initial stage, and it remains to be seen how things develop from hereon.