According to Mundo Deportivo, Lucas Herrington is no longer considered one of Barcelona’s most advanced transfer targets.
Although the 18-year-old Australian centre-back has been closely monitored on several occasions by the club’s scouting department, Barça are currently unwilling to make a move or enter into a bidding war for his signature.
The Colorado Rapids defender has attracted growing interest across Europe thanks to his performances in MLS and with the Australian national team.
Reports have even suggested that the American club turned down an initial offer worth around €10 million from Barcelona.
However, any deal has become increasingly complicated due to Colorado Rapids’ high valuation of the player, as the MLS club believe the defender’s value is more than €20 million.
Lucas Herrington of Australia
Lucas Herrington has impressed for Colorado Rapids. (Photo by Elizabeth Ruiz Ruiz/Getty Images)
Barcelona also have other priorities in the market, although sporting director Deco continues to keep the centre-back position in mind for the future.
Still on the list, but no longer a priority
Herrington remains on Barcelona’s radar, but his name is no longer among the club’s most active options. Barça continue to monitor numerous young talents without necessarily planning immediate moves.
Meanwhile, other names that have been linked with the La Liga champions in recent weeks are not currently under consideration at the club.
Indeed, Neil Pierre, the 18-year-old centre-back from Philadelphia Union, 17-year-old Le Havre defender Stephan Zagadou, and Trabzonspor midfielder Christ Inao Oulai, 20, are not part of Barcelona’s plans at this stage.
Lucas Herrington of Australia and Colorado Rapids
No move for Herrington for now. (Photo by Ronald Martinez/Getty Images)
Focus remains on long-term scouting
Barcelona’s recruitment department continues to track emerging talents around the world as part of its long-term strategy.
However, there are currently no imminent plans to complete deals for any of these youngsters.
For now, Herrington’s potential move to the Spotify Camp Nou appears to have cooled considerably, with Barça unwilling to be drawn into expensive negotiations and preferring to remain patient in the market.
The fact that his contract at the MLS club runs until the end of Decemner 2029, with the option for an additional year, puts them in a strong negotiating position.
As for Barcelona, the immediate focus is on signing a new centre-forward like Julian Alvarez.