Burnley manager Scott Parker has urged perspective regarding the possible signing of Joao Mendes, the son of Brazil legend Ronaldinho.
He says the buzz around the news could heap a lot of pressure on the 19-year-old, who understands the main motive behind the move.
The Championship club are reportedly putting the finishing touches to a deal which will see the former Barcelona teenager swap the Nou Camp for Turf Moor on what is expected to be a two-year deal.
Parker admits the buzz is definitely as a result of the achievement’s of Mendes’ father.
He pointed out that the main motive behind the deal has been spelt out to the teenager.
“This is a player we see as a development player and a project in that sense,” said Parker ahead of Burnley’s home game against Cardiff this weekend.
“As of right now the paperwork has not been signed but there is definitely something in it for sure.
“I get the excitement around it but I think it would be unfair to heap a huge amount of pressure on a young boy coming here.
“He knows why he is coming here in terms of development so I wouldn’t want to heap more pressure than that which is already on him.”
Mendes began his footballing career with Flamengo after coming through from Cruzeiro’s academy in Brazil before signing for Barcelona’s Under-19s in 2023 following a successful trial.
He did not make an appearance for Barcelona’s senior side and his 12-month contract with the La Liga giants ended in June 2024.
