Flamengo gem Ryan Roberto catches eye of Barcelona – Inquiry already made | OneFootball

FC Barcelona have always been a club that has placed immense trust in young talent, although mostly coming through La Masia. That said, the club has also been on the lookout for promising youngsters in the market, especially in recent years.

One prime example of this is the way the Catalan club snapped up Roony Bardghi from Copenhagen this summer, getting him for a bargain price due to his contractual situation. The Swedish winger has already undergone his medical at Barcelona and looks set to be a part of the pre-season tour.

Another young talent has caught the attention of FC Barcelona

Photo Courtesy: CR Flamengo’s official website

Now, another exciting prospect has emerged from Brazil’s prolific footballing pipeline, catching the attention of Europe’s elite clubs. According to Ge Globo (via Mundo Deportivo), 17-year-old Flamengo gem Ryan Roberto is the latest talent on Barcelona’s radar.

Roberto is already turning heads in Europe thanks to a breakout year at the youth level and a profile that mirrors the qualities elite clubs are actively seeking.

Known for his speed, flair, and goal-scoring instincts, Roberto is now firmly on the radar of some of the continent’s biggest clubs, including FC Barcelona. However, the Catalan giants are not alone in their interest, as Ajax are also monitoring the young Brazilian forward.

As per the report, Barcelona and Ajax have also made inquiries about Ryan Roberto following his stellar performances during the 2025 season.

A right-footed winger who operates on the left, Roberto is skillful and, despite his age, has already demonstrated a knack for scoring goals consistently. His talent is further evidenced by the fact that he represents Brazil at youth international levels.

Roberto has recorded an impressive 20 goals and 14 assists in 33 matches for Flamengo’s U-17 team in 2025, more than one goal contribution per game. His profile aligns perfectly with what the Barça sporting department is currently looking for in the market: a right-footed, skillful, fast winger with goal-scoring ability who plays on the left flank.

The report also mentions that Flamengo first-team coach Filipe Luís has great trust in Roberto’s potential. While he has yet to make his first-team debut, it is expected to happen sooner rather than later.

A Complex Contractual Situation

However, the player’s contractual situation presents a challenge for Barcelona. Roberto joined Flamengo in 2023 from Athletico Paranaense, after initially developing at Portuguesa. At the time, both clubs retained 50% of the player’s rights.

Flamengo holds the option to acquire an additional 20% of his rights for €1.5 million, although they have not yet exercised that option. Interestingly, the teenager’s former club attempted to buy back 20% of his rights, but Flamengo understandably rejected the offer.

The last time Barcelona signed a high-profile Brazilian talent, it was Vitor Roque, who is already back in his home country after a disappointing spell at the Catalan club. As a result, Deco & Co. must proceed cautiously with the Roberto situation. It remains to be seen whether the Catalan club will make a significant push to sign the teenager in the coming months.