In the battle for the world’s best players, top European clubs are also vying to recruit young talents. In Argentina, a young talent considered the next Lionel Messi has caught the attention of PSG, Manchester City, and Real Madrid.
Juni Calafat, a scout for Real Madrid known for his eye for talent, particularly in Brazil, could be described as the “eyes” of Real Madrid. In recent years, he has successfully recruited players such as Federico Valverde, Vinicius Junior, Rodryo, Reinier, and Endrick. Calafat and other scouts travel all over South America with the goal of identifying the stars of tomorrow.
They have repeatedly observed a certain Claudio Echeverri. This name may not ring a bell, but he is considered one of the most promising players in Argentina. He was born on January 2, 2006, in Resistencia, and later joined Deportivo Lujan before being spotted by River Plate in 2016. He officially signed with the club in 2017. He gained attention in Europe during an international tournament in Venice.
He is compared to Messi
There, he shone by scoring 9 goals in 6 matches. Moreover, he caught the attention of European clubs who are following his progress. It must be said that this 1.70m tall attacking midfielder was quickly compared to a certain Lionel Messi.
This season, he started with River Plate’s U20 team before joining the reserve team. Nicknamed “El Diablito”, he is also an Argentine U17 international. In fact, he is currently participating in the U17 Sudamericano in Ecuador, where he has already scored 3 goals.
He is capable of scoring and assisting others as he is a formidable playmaker (2 assists). As the star of his team, he was honoured on the Argentine Football Association (AFA) website, where he gave an interview. “A lot is said about the number I wear… the 10.
For me, it’s something special, it’s a responsibility. Those who wear the 10 know that it’s the responsibility of the national team. The best player in the world wears this jersey, Lionel…” A player he is compared to and with whom he recently had the opportunity to share a moment on the football field.
The PSG faces competition
“Training with the world champions has been something very beautiful. An unforgettable day, I also had the chance to meet Messi… It means a lot, he’s the best player in the world, an example for everyone and a great person. Meeting him was a great pleasure.”
There’s no doubt that he must have asked him for some advice, as he’s a true raw diamond to be polished for Argentina, both in the national team and in his club. In fact, Martin Demichelis (River Plate coach) plans to integrate him into the professional team in June of next year, or at the latest during the January 2024 pre-season. “He’s the main reinforcement we will have soon,” said one of the members of the technical staff to the local press.
Under contract until 2015, the 17-year-old has been approached by his club’s management, who wants to extend his contract, especially since he has a release clause of 25 million euros (which would increase to 50 million euros if he extends). This is something that Real Madrid is keen to take advantage of, as they have already scouted him several times. However, the Madrid club is not the only one interested in him.
According to Sport, Manchester City and… PSG are also keen on him. The Parisian club appreciates his dribbling skills, as well as his effectiveness and speed. For now, all the clubs are only at the stage of showing interest, but they could quickly make a move.”
