EXCLUSIVE: Barcelona close in on signing of Brazilian youngster Robert
FC Barcelona are a step away from closing the loan signing of Fluminense player Robert, with an option to then buy the forward in the future.
The player, who has been a revelation in Rio de Janeiro recently, will join up with the Barça B side, but will train with the first team and could have the chance to play alongside Neymar, Lionel Messi and Luis Suarez at some points.
The operation is advanced and is expected to be closed in a matter of days.
Robert Goncalves, 19, plays almost as a No.10, although he can also play as a striker. He stands out for his physical strength and his capacity to generate attacks.
He has already been called up once to the full Brazil squad, while he is a regular in the country’s junior sides.
Barça have watched the player on various occasions. Urban Ortega recently went to Brazil to follow him directly and to speak with him and his representatives.
The players is convinced he wants to move to the Catalan club and has given the OK to the operation.
Fulminates are ready to loan the player and all that remains is to finalise the option to but the player, which should be for a fee of around seven million euros.
Barça have moved quickly because Manchester City and Chelsea were also chasing the player. Robert has a lot of quality and will alternate between Barça B and the first team.
