Lucas Lima confirms that he will join Barça in 2018
'Globoesporte' reveal the player's confessed he's moving to Camp Nou
He cannot sign a contract with the Blaugrana until July 1 due to FIFA's rules
Lucas Lima will be a Barcelona player from 2018. The footballer himself has confirmed his signing in a game of poker with Neymar in which 50 people were present, according to Brazilian outlet Globoestporte.
Lima will join the club in 2018 when his contract with Santos expires. His current terms run out at the end of December, so from January 1 he will be able to join any club he chooses -- and he's chosen Barça. According to FIFA rules, the player cannot sign anything until six months before his contract ends, so he will sign a deal with Barça on July 1.
People closest to Lucas Lima have already been informed of the player's decision, although Santos still don't know what the future holds for their midfielder. Until July 1 it would be illegal to sign a contract with the Blaugrana as it would break FIFA's regulations.
Barça, therefore, will sign the Brazil international in the winter transfer window without having to spend a euro.
