Barcelona facing Premier League competition for 2026 World Cup breakout star | OneFootball

Rather than signing an experienced centre-back, Barcelona look set to go with the youthful approach during the ongoing summer transfer window. They have been linked with several talents, but the one that appears to be their favourite is Lucas Herrington.

Last month, Barcelona submitted an offer to Colorado Rapids for Herrington, and although it was turned down, their interest has remained. In fact, it only increased after seeing how well he performed at the 2026 World Cup with Australia, although the tournament did end in heartbreak for the teenager after he missed a costly penalty in the shoot-out defeat to Egypt.

Barcelona are expected to move again for Herrington, although their chances of signing the young central defender will be made more difficult by the increased competition that has emerged on the back of his impressive World Cup performances. As per TEAMtalk (via CaughtOffside), the likes of Liverpool, Manchester United, Everton, Aston Villa, and Newcastle United all have interest in the 18-year-old, while Chelsea and Manchester City have held talks with his representatives.

Barcelona may have to move quick to sign Herrington

Barcelona are aware that they will not be able to compete with the financial packages that Premier League clubs can offer, so in order to guarantee that Herrington will sign, they may need to move quickly and reach an agreement with both him and Colorado, although that will be easier said than done.

If Barcelona do manage to tie up a deal for Herrington, it would be a very shrewd piece of business. Aside from Pau Cubarsi, there is no obvious standout young central defender at the club, and if the pair were to strike up a successful partnership, the Catalans would be set for many years to come.

However, it would still be wise for a more experience centre-back to arrive even if Herrington is signed, given that Barcelona are severely lacking in this department after the exit of Inigo Martinez last summer.