Future gem alert! Deco personally tracks 16-year-old Brazilian wonderkid with €100m clause!

Barcelona have taken an important early step in tracking one of Brazil’s most exciting young prospects, with reports confirming that sporting director Deco is personally involved in monitoring 16-year-old striker Eduardo Conceicao.

According to SPORT, the Catalan club have already made contact with Conceicao’s representatives as part of a long-term strategy aimed at securing elite South American talent before competition intensifies. While no immediate move is planned, Barcelona are determined to remain well positioned for the future.

Conceicao, who is currently developing at Palmeiras, has been on Barcelona’s radar for some time. As part of their annual scouting routine, the club once again sent a member of their coaching staff to Sao Paulo. However, sources indicate that Barca’s interest did not originate from this year’s Copinha tournament.

Internal reports compiled during Conceicao’s spell with the Palmeiras Under-17 side were said to be extremely positive, highlighting his technical ability, physical development and goal-scoring instincts. These assessments encouraged Barcelona to formalize their interest behind the scenes.

The situation became more concrete in December when Conceicao’s agents were invited to the Ciutat Esportiva Joan Gamper. During that visit, meetings were held with Joao Amaral, head of Barcelona’s scouting department, as well as Deco himself. The message from the club was clear: Conceicao is considered a serious prospect for the future and will remain under close observation.

Despite the interest, any potential deal is far from simple. Conceicao recently signed a new contract with Palmeiras that runs until January 2029. The Brazilian club have protected their asset with a €100 million release clause, meaning any future transfer would require direct negotiations rather than a straightforward buyout.

From Barcelona’s perspective, Conceicao is viewed as a medium-term investment rather than an immediate target. FIFA regulations prevent the player from moving to Europe until January 2028, when he turns 18. By that stage, Barca believe their financial situation will be significantly improved, allowing them to compete more aggressively in the market.

For now, the club have no intention of making a formal approach during 2026. However, Barcelona are fully aware of the growing threat posed by Premier League clubs, who continue to scout South America aggressively.

If Barcelona are to remain in the race for Conceicao’s signature, patience will be required from both the player and his representatives as external interest inevitably increases in the coming years.