Barcelona remain interested in 17-year-old midfield prospect; Arsenal and Man United also keen | Barca Universal

Rafael Belinho has drawn transfer speculation after attracting interest from leading European clubs, including FC Barcelona. The 17-year-old attacking midfielder, born in Rio de Janeiro and holding Croatian nationality, has been followed by Arsenal, Manchester United, Newcastle United, and Bayern Munich. His development began at Vasco da Gama, then continued in Croatia with NK Vinodol and Dinamo Zagreb before he joined NK Kustosija in February. He is under contract until 2029 and can play as an attacking midfielder and on the right flank, cutting inside with his left foot. His agility, quick turns, and ability to shield the ball help him escape pressure. His representative is Croatian agent Andy Bara, who has prior connections to Barcelona, and he has said Belinho needs more time and would not leave for less than €10 million.

"Rafael Belinho has been the subject of transfer speculation for several months regarding a potential move to one of Europe's leading clubs, including FC Barcelona. The NK Kustosija attacking midfielder, who is of Brazilian origin and also holds Croatian nationality, has attracted the attention of multiple teams across the continent despite being only 17 years old."

"Now, according to reports in England, as relayed by Mundo Deportivo, Barcelona are still among the clubs keeping Belinho on their list of potential targets. Alongside Barcelona, clubs such as Arsenal, Manchester United, and Newcastle United have also been identified as monitoring the promising youngster. Bayern Munich have also recently been mentioned among the clubs following Belinho's progress."

"Belinho joined Kustosija in February from Dinamo Zagreb and remains under contract until 2029. Although he mainly plays as an attacking midfielder, he also operates on the right flank, cutting inside with his left foot. Belinho is not particularly tall, but compensates for it with agility and quick, sharp turns that allow him to shield the ball and escape pressure even in crowded areas."

"Bara recently stated that Belinho still requires additional time before making the step up to a higher professional level. He also made clear that, under any circumstances, the player would not leave for a fee lower than €10 million."

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