Barcelona scouting 20-year-old Russian sensation lighting up the league with 14 G/A

Barcelona’s search for fresh attacking firepower has taken an interesting twist, as SPORT reports that Lokomotiv Moscow’s rising star Aleksey Batrakov is now firmly on the Catalan club’s radar.

At just 20 years of age, the Russian attacking midfielder has exploded onto the scene this season, turning heads across Europe with numbers that would be impressive even for a forward, let alone an attacking midfielder.

Batrakov has been one of the standout performers in the Russian Premier League, scoring 10 goals and providing four assists in just 14 matches.

What makes this even more remarkable is that he is operating from attacking midfield rather than from a traditional goalscoring role.

His productivity has naturally ignited the interest of several European clubs, including PSG, but Barcelona appear particularly alert to his meteoric rise.

A bargain for now

Lokomotiv Moscow have transformed into a more serious, structured club since former player Vladimir Leonchenko stepped into the role of sporting director.

Batrakov’s contract runs until 2027 and his value has been climbing steadily. Transfermarkt places him at €23 million, but Barça could realistically secure him for around €20 million at present.

However, if his season continues at this pace, that figure will likely rise significantly by the summer.

With Robert Lewandowski’s contract running until 2026 and the Polish striker already 37, Barcelona know they must start planning for a future where the goals come from elsewhere.

Although Batrakov is not an out-and-out striker, his ability to find the net, connect with midfielders and influence games makes him an appealing long-term option.

As such, Clubs like Girona and AS Monaco have also kept a close watch, with Monaco scouts attending his recent matches.

Who is Aleksey Batrakov?

Batrakov’s progression has been steady but impressive. He initially made headlines during Lokomotiv’s Young League triumph in the 2020-21 season, finishing as top assister with 12 assists and contributing nine goals.

His senior debut arrived in 2024, and since then, his rise has been rapid. Last season, he was the league’s third-highest scorer with 14 goals.

Now, with his numbers soaring even higher, Barcelona see a rare opportunity.

A 20-year-old midfielder scoring like a seasoned striker does not come around often, and Batrakov may just be the type of modern attacking midfielder Barça need.