In recent months, Barcelona's scouting network has intensified its observation of young talents across various countries and continents. The club is not only concentrating on its youth categories, such as the Juvenil and Barça Atlètic teams, but also exploring players who could be valuable assets in the future.
Led by scout Joao Amaral, the team identified two players from Ecuadorian club LDU Quito: 18-year-old Josué Caicedo and 17-year-old Ederson Casillo. Both have experience in LDU's youth squads, with appearances for the first team and participation in the Copa Libertadores.
Barcelona is close to securing the signing of Josué Caicedo. Originally a left winger, he has established himself as a left-back at a high competitive level. Scouts note his high potential and physical stamina. The club plans to arrange a loan deal including a purchase option worth €2.5 million. His playing style has been compared to Nuno Mendes regarding physical capacity.
Prior to formal talks about Caicedo, LDU Quito allowed Ederson Casillo to visit Barcelona for trial training sessions. The 17-year-old midfielder, who is a close friend of Caicedo, spent a week training under Pol Planas, coach of Juvenil A, in January. Casillo demonstrated a pivot profile distinct from typical La Masia styles. However, Barcelona has yet to finalize a decision concerning him, as he would not be eligible to join until December 2026 upon turning 18.
