With an emphasis on recruiting talented young players who have yet to explode on the European scene, Barcelona has been surveying the situation of the Argentine starlet, Claudio Echeverri.

The 17-year-old stood out in the under-17 World Cup held in Indonesia, where he scored a sensational hat-trick against Brazil in the semi-finals and proved to be a livewire buzzing around the midfield throughout the tournament.

However, Echeverri is not just on Barcelona’s wishlist, as the youngster has entered the crosshairs of many European heavyweights.

Barcelona have their work cut out

Indeed, according to Fabrizio Romano, both Chelsea and Manchester City have made contact to be informed about Claudio Echeverri’s situation.

Moreover, the report mentions that Barcelona continues to be keen, but the structure of the deal makes it complicated with Financial Fair Play concerns.

The youngster has a meager release clause of €25 million, which is set to jump to €30 million in the final days of the market.

Echeverri has made five competitive appearances for River Plate. He is steadily working his way up to his big break, which could soon lead to a move to Europe.

Contesting against financially affluent clubs like Manchester City and Chelsea will be a significant uphill task for Barcelona amid their current monetary position.

However, Barça have an ace up their sleeve, which is Evheverri’s own desire to don the Blaugranes jersey.

The River Plate sensation professed his love for Barcelona previously and would likely make an effort to play for the club if they ultimately make a move.

But for now, the Catalan giants can only monitor his situation as they resolve their financial position.