Barcelona will reportedly compete with Ligue 1 outfit LOSC Lille for 19-year-old Portuguese attacking sensation Jose Melro.
According to a report by Spanish outlet Mundo Deportivo, Jose Melro is the subject of interest from Barcelona. The 19-year-old attacking sensation is also a target for Ligue 1 outfit LOSC Lille. The two high-profile clubs are vying for the signature of the Benfica wonderkid heading into the summer transfer window.
Who is Jose Melro?
Jose Melro is the latest in the ongoing generation of highly-rated Portuguese prodigies. Antonio Silva and Joao Neves are among the players who have risen in prominence in the last few years, capturing the attention of high-profile clubs across Europe. Melro has now emerged as a high-potential prospect at SL Benfica.
A native of Santarem, the 19-year-old began his youth career at his hometown club before joining Benfica in July 2022. Since then, he has gone from strength to strength, establishing himself as one of the best young prospects in his homeland. Meanwhile, Melro is enjoying a solid 2023/24 campaign, amassing 11 goals and one assist in 14 appearances thus far.
Meanwhile, Melro’s progress at SL Benfica has not gone unnoticed, capturing the attention of several well-known clubs. Widespread reports in January had linked the Portuguese attacking sensation with Barcelona. He has now emerged as a target for Ligue 1 outfit LOSC Lille.
Barcelona, Lille want Melro
Barcelona’s interest in Jose Melro is understandable. The reigning La Liga champions constantly scour the market for highly-rated prospects. Such an outlook has helped them strike the right balance of youth and experience in their first-team squad. And with Raphinha and Ferran Torres facing an uncertain future at the club, Melro is a viable target for Barcelona.
As for LOSC Lille, the report suggests the Ligue 1 giants view the 19-year-old Portuguese attacking sensation as a potential replacement for Jonathan David. Considering the teenage prospect can play across the frontline, that thought process makes sense.
With Melro coming leaps and bounds with every passing month, it will not be surprising to see other clubs joining the race to sign him. For now, Barcelona and LOSC Lille are vying for his signature heading into the summer transfer window.
