Barcelona Transfer News: Why Acquiring Marquinhos Would Be Good Investment

It has been a whirlwind of a year for Marquinhos, who has gone from being a somewhat unheralded young defender with Corinthians to one of the most promising young talents in Serie A. 

A year ago, Roma had just secured the rights to Marquinhos, and this season the Brazilian blossomed under Rudi Garcia and became a valued member of the club's defense corps. 

So, it shouldn't come as any surprise that Barcelona has been linked to the stingy defender, because he clearly has the potential to make an impact in La Liga. He could bolster what was at times an inconsistent back line at Camp Nou, via Yahoo! Sport UK:

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Roma's Marquinhos seemed on the verge of a move to Paris Saint-Germain, reports in the Brazilian Press claim he is holding out for Barcelona.

The Roma youngster was said to be ‘not very far away’ from a switch to the French champions on Saturday.

But media outlets in his home country claim that the centre back is not keen on Laurent Blanc’s men and would rather wait for a transfer to Camp Nou.

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If this is all true, and Marquinhos is truly intent on landing with Barcelona, Tito Vilanova has to be at least inquiring about the availability of the fast-improving center defender. 

It may be that he's already destined for Paris Saint-Germain, but if that's not the case, Barcelona would be wise to take a run at him. 

Having just turned 19, Marquinhos is obviously still a work in progress, but given the number of legendary defenders to have come out of Barcelona, the opportunity to develop alongside some of the world's best at the position has to be enticing for a young player. 

After having seen how well he played with Roma, he won't have to be brought along slowly. Marquinhos may actually benefit by staying one more year in Italy, as he'll undoubtedly receive more playing time there than he would with Barcelona. 

Regardless of when Barcelona takes a run at Marquinhos, if it's true that he wants to be there, he's a worthy investment. Young players as mature on the pitch as Marquinhos don't grow on trees, so securing his transfer would be a step in the right direction for both the present and future.