Barcelona intensify scouting of 24-year-old La Masia graduate now playing in Italy who left the club in 2018 – Report | OneFootball

FC Barcelona remain fully aware of the financial and registration limitations that continue to shape their activity in the transfer market. With restricted spending power and little margin to integrate new signings, the club’s sporting department is prioritising low-risk profiles that fit both the economic reality and the club’s footballing identity.

Within that framework, Barcelona have stepped up their scouting work in recent weeks on a familiar name. According to Fichajes, the club has activated serious and ongoing monitoring of Adrian Bernabe, a former La Masia midfielder who has spent several years away from the media spotlight but has now firmly established himself in Italian football.

The increased attention reflects an internal belief that his development aligns well with Barcelona’s present sporting model. At 24 years of age, the Spaniard is now one of Parma’s most important players and is being viewed internally as a potential market opportunity.

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Bernabe is primarily a central midfielder and left Barcelona at a very young age to join Manchester City in 2018, attracted by the chance to grow within a highly demanding project. Under Pep Guardiola, he made five official appearances in domestic competitions, gaining valuable tactical education despite facing fierce internal competition that limited his continuity.

That lack of regular playing time led him to make a decisive career move. In 2021, Bernabe joined Parma when the club was competing in Serie B, a step that was initially perceived as a downgrade but ultimately became a turning point. Parma offered him trust, stability, and a central role, allowing him to develop without constant pressure.

Over time, the Spanish midfielder grew into a leader on the pitch. His ability to organise play, control tempo, and take responsibility in possession made him a cornerstone of the team. His performances were instrumental in Parma’s promotion to Serie A, and this season, free from recurring physical issues, he is enjoying the most consistent campaign of his career in the Italian top flight.

At Barcelona, Bernabe’s profile is appreciated for its technical quality, vision, and understanding of positional play. He is valued as a midfielder who ensures clean ball progression, intelligent circulation, and tactical discipline. His ability to shoot from distance and contribute from set pieces is also seen as an added asset in the current squad context.

From a strategic standpoint, this is not viewed as a high-profile signing but rather as a move aligned with Barcelona’s present market approach. The club is seeking ready-made players with competitive experience who can deliver immediate performance without inflating costs or compromising long-term planning. Bernabe’s background at La Masia and his development under Guardiola strengthen his appeal.

The midfielder remains under contract with Parma until June 2027, meaning any potential move would require direct negotiations between the clubs. Still, his age, salary range, and familiarity with Barcelona’s playing philosophy place him within a financially manageable bracket.

As per the report, sources close to the player also view Barcelona’s interest positively, though there is no urgency from either side at this stage.

Barcelona will continue to assess the situation as the market evolves and as the squad’s needs become clearer. Bringing back a former academy player who has matured abroad fits the club’s current vision.

The interest is genuine, the profile is well-liked, and the option remains firmly on the table as Barcelona look to strengthen wisely without losing sight of their identity.