Barcelona have taken a teenage Brazilian prodigy on trial for 10 days after catching the eye at a prominent South American tournament.
Joao Vitor, a 16-year-old hailing from Roraima in north Brazil, was invited to La Masia this month and is currently training with the club’s under 18s.
Barca scouts had spotted the central midfielder during the famed Copinha tournament, where the performances of the Ibrachina product had prompted interest from across the world.
At 15 years 10 months, Vitor was the youngest player to score in this season’s competition for youth sides across Brazil.
Vitor had spent four years at Palmeiras before switching to Ibrachina. Palmeiras, Flamengo, Santos and Vasco de Gama are among those interested in signing him after the Copinha.
Barca have stolen a march, however, and want to take a closer look at how Vitor – in Catalonia with his representatives from Websoccer – stands up to their current crop.
Barcelona have handed a 10-day trial to 16-year-old Brazil central midfielder Joao Vitor
The Ibrachina youngster has a host of clubs, including Santos, vying for his signature
The Champions League semi finalists have offered similar to the likes of Mali winger Ibrahima Diarra and David Oduro, a Ghanian defender, with the pair securing contracts.
‘I was invited to a training period and to get to know the structure of the club,’ Vitor said.
‘I am very happy for the opportunity. I want to thank God, everyone who helped me get here and Ibrachina for the opportunity given to me. I will give my best.’
