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Highly rated Athletico Paranaense defender Arthur Dias says he is “very happy clubs are interested in me” amid talk of a future move to Barcelona.
Dias is regarded as one of the most promising defenders in South America having helped Athletico earn promotion to the Brazilian top flight in 2025.
After making 17 appearances in the Brazilian Serie B, the 19-year-old has kicked on in 2026, turning out 30 times for third-placed Athletico in Serie A.
Such has been the form of Dias that the centre-back made his senior debut for Brazil in a friendly against Australia in September.
A late substitute in the 4-2 win over Australia, Dias then started alongside Marquinhos as Brazil downed India 4-0 at the start of this month.
His performances have reportedly caught the attention of Barcelona, who remain in the market for a left-footed centre-back.
The La Liga giants pursued Josko Gvardiol and Alessandro Bastoni in the summer but were unable to strike a deal for either defender.
And now Barcelona have been told by Dias himself that he harbours the ambition of playing Champions League football one day.
In quotes carried by Spanish outlet SPORT, Dias said: “I am very happy that clubs are interested in me. It means I am doing a good job on the pitch, but I always say that without my teammates and coaches, I wouldn’t be where I am.
“Of course, I want to win trophies and grow, but I am very happy here [at Athletico]. Every player dreams of playing in the Champions League one day, of competing in such a massive tournament.
“However, right now I am fully focused on Athletico. I leave those matters [regarding transfers] to my agent.”
SPORT cites sources in Brazil as saying Athletico value Dias at €12million (£10.1m), with his contract running until the summer of 2028.
Barcelona have made an ominous start to the season
Despite missing out on signing a left-sided centre-back in the summer, Barcelona have been in irresistible form this season.
Hansi Flick’s side have won their opening nine games this season, scoring 39 goals across La Liga and the Champions League.
V I C T O R Y https://t.co/VyLFrIPqOZ
— FC Barcelona (@FCBarcelona) October 10, 2026
They return to action when they travel to Galatasaray in Europe’s premier club competition this evening, before making the trip to Real Betis in La Liga on Saturday.
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