Toluwani Lasisi
João Mendes, son of legendary footballer Ronadinho, has been signed in as new Burnley player.
It is his first professional contract.
Mendes began his junior career at Flamengo, one of his father’s former clubs.
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.
Burnley are reportedly putting the finishing touches to a deal which will see the former Barcelona teenager leave the Camp Nou for 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.
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.
