Barcelona will challenge the likes of Man City for the services of Club Tiguana attacking midfielder Gilberto Mora, according to reports in the Catalan media.
The Spanish champions have been sending scouts to watch the young Mexican at the Under-20 World Cup, where he has scored 3 goals and contributed 2 assists in 4 appearances so far.
Newspaper Sport claim that Barca are now working “behind the scenes” to secure Mora’s signature ahead of rival clubs.
Most Read on Man City News
There are expected to be discussions with the teenager’s agent, Rafaela Pimenta, who has a strong working relationship with the La Liga side, having previously worked with super agent Mino Raiola.
Will Man City challenge Barcelona?
It was reported last week that Pep Guardiola’s side, Arsenal and Chelsea have been scouting the 16-year-old.
Due to his age, Premier League teams will only be able to snap him up when he turns 18 in October next year, so that could be a factor. However, teams, including Chelsea, have sealed pre-agreements with young players in the past, so that should not pose much of a problem.
Sport claim that City and Arsenal are the two English teams who are the most “attentive” when it comes to Mora, so we shall see if any attempts to head off Barca are made over the coming weeks.
What could City offer Mora?
While the Mexican would undoubtedly be attracted to a club of Barcelona’s stature, he would have to weigh up whether there is a path to the first team.
Other youngsters, including Vitor Roque, have seen their careers stall after making the switch to the Camp Nou.
In stark contrast, City’s network of clubs mean that, even if he isn’t ready to make his breakthrough in Manchester, he could play for the likes of Girona or Troyes instead.
Read more about the Man City First Team Squad for 2025/26 here