According to a recent report by Mundo Deportivo (translated by The Daily Mail), Barcelona have reached an agreement with Palmeiras to bring Matheus Fernandes to the Nou Camp. It is understood that the Catalan outfit will pay around £6m plus £3m in add-ons to acquire the services of the Brazilian youngster (via Mundo Deportivo).
Fernandes’ Recent Emergence In The Brazilian Top-Flight
The Palmeiras rising star has been likened to Barcelona midfielder Sergio Busquets in the way he conducts himself in midfield. Fernandes came through the youth ranks of Botafogo before making his big move to Palmeiras at the start of last year. He has made a total of 74 appearances in the Brazilian Serie A, scoring two goals while providing two assists.
The South American sensation has gone on to feature in 12 matches for Vanderlei Luxemburgo’s team and has scored one goal in the process. However, he is yet to justify his worth in Brazilian football.
Why The Brazilian Midfield Ace Will Need Time To Prove His Worth
Even though Fernandes is still quite raw and would need time to develop his game, the potential is there for everyone to see as he has shown glimpses of his brilliance over the past year.
Fernandes has a very promising future, but he is yet to prove his worth at the highest level. The Brazilian whizkid has still not nailed down a regular starting berth in the Palmeiras first-team, so it’s difficult to see how he will be good enough to get adequate playing time at the Nou Camp.
Will Fernandes Be A Wise Addition To The Barca Squad?
At the same time, both Sergio Busquets and Ivan Rakitic are about to embark upon the twilight years of their playing career which means that the new Barca boss Quique Setién has to find suitable replacements for them in the long-run.
Fernandes has the makings of a top player so he could be ready after a couple of years to replace them in the Barca starting XI. Therefore, the Brazilian’s acquisition could prove to be a wise move for the Catalans as it fits their long-term goals as a successful football club.
