Confirmed: Barcelona sign 18-year-old South American prodigy | OneFootball

FC Barcelona have continued to strengthen the ranks of their reserve team, Barça Atletic, with Josue Caicedo becoming the latest signing of the summer.

The teenage left-back, who can play anywhere along the flank, arrives on a season-long loan deal from LDU Quito in Ecuador, with an option to make the transfer permanent at the end of the season.

“FC Barcelona and LDU Quito have reached an agreement for the loan of Josué Caicedo to Barça Atletic for the 2026/27 season,” the club statement read.

“The 18-year-old Ecuadorian footballer joins the Barça reserve team with an option to buy at the end of the season and will strengthen the squad managed by Juliano Belletti in the Segunda Federacion.” 

Exciting talent

Caicedo, only 18 years old, is considered a highly talented young left-back with an attacking profile.

Capable of playing anywhere along the left flank, the teenager is known for his physicality, power, and burst of speed, making him an exciting prospect.

One of the most highly rated aspects of Caicedo’s game is his left foot. He strikes the ball with both power and accuracy, making him particularly effective when delivering long passes.

Despite his age, the versatile starlet has already gone on to make eight senior appearances for LDU Quito and now arrives at Barça Atletic to help Juliano Belletti & co. earn promotion from the RFEF Segunda Federacion.

Details of the agreement

As part of the agreement, Barcelona have secured a €2.5 million purchase option for Caicedo.

However, the clause will automatically become mandatory if the 18-year-old makes four official appearances for the Barcelona first team during his time at the club.

Meanwhile, LDU Quito have also negotiated a 20% sell-on clause, ensuring they will receive a share of any future transfer should Barcelona eventually sell the player.