FC Barcelona could exploit a gap left by continental rivals Chelsea and sign highly-rated Corinthians midfielder Gabriel Moscardo in the January transfer market, according to SPORT.

Moscardo is the biggest breakthrough story of the year at the Sao Paulo giants, after earning the trust of former Brazil and Real Madrid boss Vanderlei Luxemburgo.

Despite being just 17, he is an undisputed starter with the 'Timao' for whom he has already made 11 senior appearances.

His talent and exploits have already caught the attention of a number of top European clubs including Chelsea.

Already, the west Londoners who continue to stockpile talent at will have reportedly launched a bid of €21 million ($22.5 million) plus €4 million ($4.3 million) in variables and a percentage of a future sale which has been knocked back.

Corinthians want at least €30 million ($32.1 million) for their academy product, which if met as an asking price would eclipse the €20 million ($21.4 million) sale of Pedrinho to Benfica in 2020 which was the largest the club has made in foreign currency until now.

Chelsea failing to seal Moscardo thus far opens up a gap for other interested parties to throw their hat into the ring.

As explained by SPORT, Barca sporting director Deco, who was born in Brazil and made his professional debut at Corinthians, is a known admirer of the teenager and enquired about his availability earlier this year.

With the window now closed, the Catalan daily newspaper suggests that Barca might make a move for Moscardo when the market opens again in January 2024.

This is when Barca should receive another top Brazilian talent in Vitor Roque, who Moscardo will link up with for the Selecao's U-23 outfit preparing to defend the gold medal at the Paris Olympics next summer.

Roque has already been bought for the same price tag as Moscardo, €30 million, and another €31 million ($33.2 million) will be coming Athletico Paranaense's way if 'The Little Tiger' hits a number of targets.

Putting up this kind of money again will be a push for Barca with their current Financial Fair Play issues, but raising the cash and then offering a similar considerable amount in add-ons could tempt Corinthians' resolve.

In Moscardo, Barca would receive a long-term heir for the pivot position capable of taking over the reins when Oriol Romeu, who is 32 in a couple of weeks, is ready to wind down.

Furthermore, he would also be a lot cheaper than other past targets including Martin Zubimendi and