In a recent report, Mundo Deportivo stated that Barcelona have been offered a chance to land Sporting CP left-back Nuno Mendes this summer. It is understood that the Catalans could face competition from Real Madrid and Manchester City in the race to sign the Portuguese defensive ace in this off-season (via Mundo Deportivo).
Mendes’ Consistent Season In Portuguese Football
It has been another outstanding campaign for Mendes at the José Alvalade Stadium as he put in a series of solid displays at the heart of Sporting’s backline. The 18-year-old appeared in 35 matches for the Portuguese outfit last season, finding the back of the net once and securing two assists in all competitions.
The talented full-back has performed well to average 1.7 tackles, 2.1 interceptions, 1.1 clearances, 0.6 shots, 1.1 key passes, 1.4 crosses and 1.5 dribbles per game in the previous Liga NOS campaign. He has even distributed possession relatively well from the left flank after completing 79.3% of his attempted passes in the Portuguese top tier (stats via whoscored).
Mendes has already established himself as a regular starter in Portuguese football but the jury is still out on whether he can replicate his impressive form outside his homeland. Even then, there is no denying that the Portuguese sensation will be a massive coup for Barca if they can convince him to seal a move to the Nou Camp this summer.
What Will Mendes Bring To The Nou Camp?
Mendes boasts blistering pace that he can use to make some powerful runs with the ball down the left flank. He can whip in some inviting crosses into the opponent’s penalty box but needs to find a way to be more productive in the attacking third.
The Portuguese whizkid has also transformed himself into a decent defender at the back as he can read the danger quickly to earn possession back for his side. He is not afraid to put his foot through the ball to make a clearance when needed.
An up-and-coming full-back like Mendes will be a welcome addition to Barca’s match-day squad as he could serve as an ideal long-term successor to Jordi Alba at the Nou Camp. At 18, he has the potential to grow into a future star in European football. We can expect him to bring plenty of pace and stability to Barca’s backline.
Mendes could even help them compete for some major trophies in the years to come. Hence, the Catalans should consider going all out to acquire the services of the promising youngster before the start of the new season.
