Losing the La Liga title to Real Madrid is almost always a clear sign that changes are needed in Barcelona. And while this seasons’ wounds heel, the building process for next year has already started, and one for optimism is the arrival of Francisco Trincao, whose debut for the team is eagerly awaited by the Catalan fans.

Barcelona’s management recognized the great potential of the Portuguese and signed him in January paying Braga €31 million for him. Although the young right-winger has not played a single minute for the team from Camp Nou, the Catalans have already received an offer of double that from a top English club, which they immediately rejected.

The plans and ambitions that Barcelona have with Trincao are best illustrated by the fact that he was signed to a five-year deal that includes a buyout clause set at an incredible €500 million.

It is believed that the 21-year-old footballer is already ready to take part in some matches next season, on the right-wing position next to Messi. Trincao is very quick with an amazing skillset, great at one-on-ones and has the vision and talent to adapt to Barcelona’s passing game.

One of his greatest assets at Barça will be his versatility and the fact that he can play in multiple positions across the frontline. He showed his scoring abilities in his last season in Braga recording nine goals including one in the Europa League. With his 6’1’’ frame the youngster will be big physical presence in Barcelona’s front line.

Trincao knows he is joining a team which has a history of winning trophies and that he would face the highest expectations.

“When I signed for Barça, I was speechless. It’s a proud moment and an important step for me. Now people pay more attention to me, both on and off the field but I am not worried, I do the same, I work to be better every day”, says Trincao.

The Portuguese youngster, who is considered by his compatriots as the new Ronaldo, started his career in his native town Viana do Castelo, in Vianense FC. After a short stint in Porto he moved to Braga in 2011 where his made his debut in the Portuguese Primeira Liga in December 2018 as a 19-year old. Last season with Braga he won the Portuguese cup, Taca da liga.

He was a key member of the Portugal team which won the UEFA European Under-19 Championship in 2018 beating Italy 4–3 after extra-time, scoring one of the goals. He won the Golden Boot in that tournament along with teammate Jota, with 5 goals. At the 2019 FIFA U-20 World Cup in Poland, Trincao played all three games for Portugal and scored the only goal of the opening win against South Korea, though his side did not advance from the group.