Spanish giants FC Barcelona are reportedly monitoring a Brazilian midfielder who made his debut for his national team in their 2-0 win over the United States on the weekend.

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According to Diario Sport, the Blaugrana are keeping a close eye on 21-year-old Lucas Paqueta, a former teammate of Vinicius Junior's.

The Brazilian, who is contracted until 2020, apparently has a €50 million (R879 million) release clause, although there is talk the South American is about to be offered a new deal that could see his price tag jump to €70 million (R1.23 billion).

However, Flamengo vice-president Ricardo Lomba has now stated that the club has no intention of selling the player at this point in time.

"We want him to stay here," he said, according to Diario Sport.

"He has developed at this club and we will do everything within our power to keep him here."

Over the past two years, the Catalan club has seemingly upped their scouting network in Brazil, having attracted the likes of Arthur Melo from Gremio and Yerry Mina from Palmeiras to the Camp Nou.

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Paqueta has made 27 appearances for Flamengo so far this season, scoring six goals and assisting a further four strikes.

Do you like the fact that Barcelona are trying to attract so many South American players? Have your say in the comments section below.