Borussia Dortmund is reportedly looking to bolster its squad with another South American talent for the upcoming season, though the pursuit faces significant challenges.
According to various reports from Brazilian media, BVB has set its sights on Lucca, a promising forward from Brazilian top-tier club FC Sao Paulo. It’s understood that the club’s scouts are thoroughly familiar with the 18-year-old’s abilities.
However, securing his signature will be no easy feat. Several top clubs are said to be interested in Lucca, with Premier League leaders Arsenal posing particularly strong competition. The Gunners are reportedly the frontrunners in the race for the versatile winger.
Furthermore, the transfer fee is expected to be substantial. Lucca is under contract until 2028, and the intense competition among interested clubs will likely drive up his market value.
BVB’s Edge in the Race for Lucca
Nevertheless, Borussia Dortmund holds a distinct advantage. The club has a well-established reputation for nurturing young talent, having helped players like Jadon Sancho, Ousmane Dembele, and Jude Bellingham ascend to international stardom. Moreover, Lucca would find a countryman in Kaua Prates, which could significantly aid his integration into Dortmund.
The transfer of Prates, a 17-year-old Brazilian left-back, has already been finalized. Approximately twelve million euros were reportedly paid to Cruzeiro Belo Horizonte for the teenager. Borussia also recently secured another South American talent, Justin Lerma, a 17-year-old attacking gem from Ecuador’s Independiente del Valle, for four million euros.
Lucca: An Investment for the Future
Both these acquisitions were completed during Sebastian Kehl’s tenure as sporting director. His successor, Nils-Ole Book, has since expressed his intention to continue recruiting more ‘gems.’ Book earned the nickname ‘Pearl Diver’ at his previous club, SV Elversberg, for his knack for unearthing talent. It remains to be seen if Lucca fits his recruitment profile.
The two-time Brazilian U20 international is currently viewed more as a long-term investment. At Sao Paulo, Lucca is still far from being a regular starter. This season, he has yet to make an appearance in ten Serie A matchdays, though he has regularly featured in the Campeonato Paulista, a state championship. His sole senior goal to date was scored in the Copa Libertadores.