Barcelona may have missed out on a great transfer opportunity as target Gianluca Prestianni is set to move to Benfica.
The 17-year-old wonderkid was targeted by Barcelona in the last few months, who were very close to agreeing a deal, but now looks set for a European move to a different side.
Prestianni is considered one of the biggest talents in Argentina, but the Velez Sarsfield star was one of a number of players who pushed for a move away after an attack on the squad by their supporters following a defeat.
A report from TYC Sports has confirmed that Benfica are set to land the teenager, who will cost nearly $12m (£9.4m), who will complete his move in January when he turns 18.
With Barcelona losing Ousmane Dembele to PSG, the attacker could have been a bargain long-term replacement, and if he fulfils his potential at Benfica, the club may regret not securing a deal for him now.
What makes Prestianni so good?
A right-footed right-winger, who can also play in midfield, Prestianni’s supreme technical ability makes him stand out despite his young age, and he has sky-high potential.
He has just three goals and an assist to his name in senior football, but it is clear that he will develop his end product as he gains more experience.
Barcelona do look well stocked for the future now that Vitor Roque is set to join, but they may have missed a trick with Prestianni especially given that Dembele is leaving. If he succeeds at Benfica and Barcelona want him in the future, he will cost a much higher price.
Their previous interest in him was very strong, and it is clear that some at Barcelona rate Prestianni highly. They will now hope that other young prospects such as Lamine Yamal can develop as expected to soften the blow of this target moving elsewhere.