Ronaldinho son would be Burnley ‘project’ signing

Burnley manager Scott Parker says he understands the excitement around the expected signing of Ronaldinho’s son Joao Mendes – but insists the winger will be a “development prospect”, not a first-team regular.

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.

While the Burnley manager admitted he understood the buzz about the 19-year-old given his father’s achievements in the game, he has urged perspective regarding his prospects.

“This is a player we see as a development player and a project in that sense,” said Parker before 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 came through 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.