Barcelona moving to protect itself from Arsenal raid | OneFootball

Barcelona are reportedly taking steps to fend off interest from Arsenal as the Premier League side eyes rising star Arnau Pradas.

The 18-year-old winger, currently impressing for Barcelona’s Under-19s, has caught the attention of several European clubs, with Mikel Arteta apparently keen on adding him to Arsenal’s growing pool of young talent.

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Pradas has started the 2024/25 season in superb form under coach Juliano Belletti, who was appointed to the role of u19 coach in the summer.

His performances in the UEFA Youth League, including a stunning goal in the 4-2 win against Young Boys and another in a narrow loss to Monaco, have underscored his growing reputation.

His creative flair, pace, and ability to play on either wing make him one of La Masia’s most exciting prospects.

Pradas, born in 2006, is known for his superb agility, dribbling, and ball control. A left-footed winger, he typically plays on the right these days, cutting inside to create chances or score, though his versatility allows him to adapt to various attacking roles.

His quick feet, acceleration, and flair for beating defenders in 1v1 situations has seen some scouts talk about his “futsal-like technique” when running with the ball.

Despite his small frame and struggles with defensive duels, Pradas is an extremely vertical player, always looking to push his team forward. His ability to exploit space, combined with sharp decision-making in tight areas, has made him a crucial part of Barcelona’s youth setup this season.

Barcelona are now reportedly working to block any move from Arsenal, aware that the player’s contract is expiring at the end of the current campaign. Arsenal, with Mikel Arteta’s approval, are reportedly leading the race to sign Pradas, who would fit perfectly into the club’s long-term project focused on developing young talent.

Pradas’ performances have quickly re-established his value after a period of slower development in his early youth career. With his current market value rising rapidly, Barcelona are expected to push for a contract extension to ward off Premier League suitors and there has been some mention that Arsenal’s reported interest could merely be part of a ploy to get a better deal in Spain.