Groningen confirm Barcelona interest in Zivkovic

Eredivisie side Groningen have moved to confirm reports linking Barcelona with a move for forward Richairo Zivkovic.

The 17-year-old has already impressed at senior level and he is widely regarded as one of hottest prospects in the Netherlands.

Zivkovic was handed his first league start in weekend’s 3-3 draw with Roda, and he was under the watchful eye of Barcelona and Real Madrid scouts.

“Since I have been the chairman here, I haven’t seen very often that a scout from Barcelona or Real Madrid sat in the stands,” managing director Hans Nijland told Dutch daily newspaper Voetbal International.

“It was the head scout, but there were more clubs present. Certainly, twelve, thirteen clubs were there. It is obvious they have come to watch Richairo (Zivkovic).”

Richairo Zivkovic has come through the youth ranks at Groningen and he is already on the verge of nailing down a regular starting berth.

The talented attacker has already scored 4 Eredivisie goals this season despite only making 11 substitute appearances prior to the Roda clash.

Zivkovic is predicted a bright future in the game and the mere fact Barcelona and Real Madrid are showing interest in his services speaks volumes about the player’s recent performances.