As per a report by MARCA, Barcelona were keen on signing Richarlison in 2018, but instead chose to focus on trying to complete a deal for World Cup flop Lautaro Martinez.
The now-Tottenham frontman was considered as the right profile, due to his ability to provide cover across the frontline.
Why the Spanish giants chose Martinez over now-Spurs ace
It has been mentioned that the Catalan side could not match Everton’s £40 million (Guardian) offer to sign the versatile forward from Watford.
This is due to the fact that in the same season, the club had made the big-money signings of Ousmane Dembele and Philippe Coutinho.
For those that need reminding, Barça forked out fees of £135.5 million for the Frenchman (BBC Sport) and £146 million to sign the Brazilian (Sky Sports).
The pair were brought in, after Neymar was sold to Paris Saint-Germain for a world-record fee of £200 million (The Independent) four years ago.
Considering Lautaro Martinez, who is currently having a torrid time at the World Cup was witnessed as a cut-price alternative to Richarlison, Barcelona were keen on his signature.
However, the Argentine striker decided to stay at Racing Club, before eventually securing a move to Inter Milan in the summer of 2018.
Ultimately, Barcelona’s loss has ended up becoming Tottenham’s gain.
Barcelona should not regret Richarlison loss
Look, there is no denying that Richarlison is tearing it up in Qatar.
With 3 goals for Brazil at the World Cup, the Spurs hitman is having a tournament to remember.
However, it is key to remember that the gifted, yet often inconsistent star has struggled during his time in the Premier League.
Who is to say that if Richarlison joined Barcelona, he would have fulfilled his potential?
What one can admit is that signing the misfiring Lautaro Martinez instead may not have ended up being the best call, despite him being a quality forward.
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