The 4th Official
·6 September 2023
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Yahoo sportsThe 4th Official
·6 September 2023
In a recent tweet, journalist Oscar Mendez claimed that Barcelona are monitoring the progress of Celta Vigo starlet Hugo Sotelo this summer. However, it is understood that the Catalan club could face competition in the form of Real Madrid in the race to land the Spanish midfielder.
The 19-year-old has come through the youth ranks of Celta Vigo and has managed to break out as a first-team starter at the Spanish club.
Sotelo has already made five senior appearances for his current employers thus far but is still waiting to score or assist his first goal for the club.
The Vigo-born talent has already caught the eye with his performances for Celta Fortuna but needs more time before he can establish himself as a regular starter in La Liga.
VIGO, SPAIN – AUGUST 13: Aimar Oroz of CA Osasuna battles for possession with Hugo Sotelo of Celta Vigo during the LaLiga EA Sports match between Celta Vigo and CA Osasuna at Estadio Balaidos on August 13, 2023 in Vigo, Spain. (Photo by Octavio Passos/Getty Images)
Sotelo can get stuck in with a few solid tackles to make life tough for the opposition at the centre of the park. He can strike the ball with power and accuracy from long range and has got the vision to engineer a few promising chances in the final third. However, Sotelo needs to work on his decision-making in front of the opponent’s goal.
The Spanish youngster is a decent dribbler with the ball as well and can pass the ball accurately from midfield.
Hence, it makes sense for Barcelona to move in for Sotelo in the future. He has the potential to become a future star in Spanish football as long as he continues to improve with each year.
At 19, Sotelo is still quite raw and would need time to prove his worth at the highest level. However, there is no denying that he will be a great signing for the Catalan club in the long run.
Xavi could nurture Sotelo and unlock the best out of him at the Nou Camp over the next decade. With all things considered, Barca should focus on getting a deal done for the Celta Vigo whizkid when the transfer window reopens this January or at the end of this campaign.