According to a fresh update from Mundo Deportivo, Barcelona’s interest in 16-year-old Mexican prodigy Gilberto Mora remains very much alive, although the club is proceeding with caution due to his age and FIFA restrictions.
The young attacking midfielder has been one of the standout stars at the ongoing U-20 World Cup, where he has scored three goals and provided two assists in four appearances.
As reported before, Barcelona scouts have been closely monitoring the tournament, and Mora’s performances have naturally caught their attention.
However, despite the admiration, Barcelona’s sporting department recognises that his signing presents a logistical challenge.
What is the problem?
Due to FIFA regulations, Mora cannot move to a European club until he turns 18, which will not happen until October 2026.
That makes an immediate transfer impossible, as the Blaugrana are currently focused on players who can strengthen Hansi Flick’s team straightaway.
Gilberto Mora of Mexico
Barcelona are interested in Gilberto Mora. (Photo by Leopoldo Smith/Getty Images)
Moreover, his non-EU status would further complicate matters, as Barcelona’s foreign player slots are already limited.
Financial considerations also play a major role. This is because Mora’s agent, Rafaela Pimenta, recently claimed that “$15 million doesn’t even buy a leg” of her client, signalling that his price tag could soar well beyond that figure.
For a player who is yet to feature in a top-tier European league, such a valuation represents a considerable risk, something Barcelona are wary of amid their delicate financial situation.
So what now?
Nonetheless, the club has not closed the door entirely. Within the scouting department, there is a shared belief that Mora possesses the kind of raw talent that could make him a future star at Camp Nou.
For now, Barcelona will continue to monitor his development closely rather than rush into negotiations.
Should his progress continue at the current rate, he could very well become a serious target for the Blaugrana in the coming years.