Barcelona send scout to watch €30m-rated teen defender Arthur Dias after Brazil call-up

Barcelona are being credited with interest in young Athletico Paranaense defender Arthur Dias and have reportedly sent a scout to watch the teenager in action following his call-up to the Brazil national team.

Brazil call-up puts Dias in the spotlight

The 19-year-old has caught the eye of the Catalans and now finds himself firmly in the spotlight after being called into the Brazil squad by manager Carlo Ancelotti for friendlies against Australia and India over the international break.

According to Um Dois Esportes, Barcelona sent scout João Amaral to watch Dias at the weekend, taking in Athletico Paranaense's match against Bahia as the young defender continued to build his reputation in the Brazilian top flight.

A modern left-footed centre-back

Dias is a tall, left-footed centre-back — a profile long prized at the Camp Nou — who is already a regular for his club side despite his young age. He is under contract with Athletico Paranaense until 2028, giving the Brazilian club a strong negotiating position as European interest grows.

Tottenham's €21m bid rejected, €30m wanted

Barcelona are not alone in tracking the teenager. Other clubs in England and Spain are also thought to be keen on Dias, with previous reports claiming that Tottenham had an offer of €21 million — for 80% of the player's economic rights — knocked back.

It's understood that Athletico Paranaense are holding out for a fee of €30m for the defender, a price tag that reflects both his contract situation and his rapid rise.

What next?

Dias will now be hoping to feature for Brazil in the two scheduled friendlies as interest in the youngster continues to grow across Europe. A strong showing on the international stage would only add to the pressure on the Catalan club to move quickly if they want to win the race for one of Brazil's most promising young defenders.