Barcelona scouting Brazilian defenders Jair Cunha and Arthur Dias

Barcelona turn attention to Brazil's next generation

La Liga giants Barcelona have ramped up their defensive recruitment planning, with the club's scouting department keeping a close eye on a pair of up-and-coming Brazilian centre-backs.

According to a report from Fichajes citing Diario Sport, the Blaugrana have identified both Jair Cunha and Arthur Dias as potential future signings. The publication stated: 'Barcelona have taken advantage of the international break to assess a couple of players who appear very promising for the future. These are the Brazilian defenders Jair Cunha and Arthur Dias.'

Two defenders with rising stock

Both players are central defenders who have seen their profiles rise sharply in recent weeks after earning call-ups to Carlo Ancelotti's senior Brazil squad. Cunha has already made the move to Europe, joining Premier League club Nottingham Forest, while Dias remains in his homeland with Athletico Paranaense.

The duo are viewed as potential long-term Brazil regulars, praised for their contributions at both ends of the pitch. As the report notes, word of such talents has already made its way to Spain.

Building on prior interest in Dias

Barcelona's interest in the 19-year-old Dias is not entirely new. As reported on 21 September 2026, the Catalan club sent scout João Amaral to watch the Athletico Paranaense teenager following his Brazil call-up, with the Brazilian side reportedly demanding around €30m after rejecting a €21m offer from Tottenham.

The latest reporting suggests the scouting network is widening to include Cunha as well, as Barcelona look to build a pipeline of defensive talent for the future.