Barcelona watching River Plate winger Ian Subiabre as future target – report

Barcelona’s strategy of scouting young talent worldwide continues to attract attention, with the club reportedly monitoring River Plate’s promising winger, Ian Subiabre. The 18-year-old, born in Comeodoro Rivadavia, Argentina, has been making waves with his performances in South American youth competitions, showcasing skill on both flanks and a knack for scoring.

According to SPORT, Barcelona even submitted a formal offer of around 10 million euros for Subiabre before ultimately signing Roony Bardghji, whose lower transfer fee made him an attractive option for immediate impact for the team. Sources close to the club reportedly say the board had long been searching for a young, left-footed winger with technical ability, and Subiabre fit the profile perfectly. While Bardghji became a priority due to Deco’s personal interest, Subiabre remains on the radar as a potential long-term reinforcement.

Despite interest from Europe’s top clubs, including Chelsea, Arsenal, and Liverpool, Subiabre recently renewed his contract with River Plate until December 2028, according to Clarín. The agreement includes a release clause of 100 million euros, which shows the club’s effort to protect its emerging talents from premature departures. Argentine Football Association president Claudio Tapia was said to be involved in facilitating the deal and allowing the player to participate in the U20 World Cup in Chile. The youngster scored two goals in that tournament, with Argentina finishing second.

Subiabre has accumulated experience at both club and international youth level, making a glut of appearances for River Plate’s first team since his debut, mostly as a substitute, and contributing in key tournaments with Argentina’s U17 and U20 squads. His ability to impact games both as a starter and from the bench has drawn comparisons to other emerging stars.

Barcelona’s current focus remains on strengthening its squad, with particular attention to left-footed center-backs and potential forwards to complement Robert Lewandowski. Adding another winger like Subiabre could be considered in future transfer windows, although sources suggest any move will depend on financial constraints and timing, likely when his contract approaches its final year.