Gustavo Maia has been officially confirmed as a new Barcelona player today on a €4.5 million transfer, with a €300m buy-out clause.
The Catalans had already paid €1m to cement a purchase option on the 19-year-old and have parted with another €3.5m to secure his services. Sao Paulo will retain 30% of the 19-year-old’s future sale. The operation will allow the Brazilian club to pay some of its debts related to the coronavirus pandemic.
Maia, who was nearly sent on loan to Flamengo last year, became a father in December and overcame personal issues to force his way into the starting line-up at the Copinha, where he scored three goals in seven games.
The Blaugrana have released an official statement confirming his transfer on their website which reads: “Barcelona have reached an agreement with Sao Paulo for the signing of Gustavo Maia, who will join Barca B. He will represent Barca B next season where he will look to break into the first team.
His signing continues Barca’s aggressive pursuit of the best young talent from all over the world. Barca paid €31m to sign Portugal youth international Francisco Trincao from Braga on a five-year contract. Attacking midfielder Pedri Gonzalez, 17, also joined Barca earlier this month from Las Palmas.
An international for Brazil at Under-16 and Under-17 level, he is a fast forward who usually plays on the left side -even though he is right-footed. He continued to make appearances for Sao Paulo’s second team, even when called up to the senior squad. A strong dribbler, with a powerful shot, he was a standout in the Copa Junior tournament.
In the meantime, the La Liga giants continue to pursue Argentine striker Lautaro Martinez at Inter Milan. Due to financial complications brought about by COVID-19, it is possible that the signing won’t be delivered for coach Quique Setien to select in the upcoming 2020/2021 campaign.
In recent seasons, the Brazilian league has been a regular shopping ground for Spain’s elite clubs. Vinicius Jr, Rodrygo Goes, Reiner and Renan Lodi were recently copped by Barcelona’s main rivals from Madrid.
