The Spanish newspaper "Mundo Deportivo" reported that FC Barcelona is preparing to appoint Portuguese João Amaral as the new director of the club's scouting department, succeeding Paulo Araújo, who announced his departure from the position at the end of June.

According to the newspaper, Amaral, who previously held the position of head coach of the Portuguese club Rio Ave, will begin his duties at Barcelona immediately upon the official announcement of the contract, as all details have been agreed upon between the two parties.

Amaral is a well-known figure to the club's sporting director, Deco, as they had previously worked together at the player representation agency "D20", which enhances the harmony between the sporting management and the scouting department.

Mundo Deportivo indicated that journalist Fabrizio Romano confirmed the completion of the agreement, awaiting the official announcement from the Catalan club.

Amaral had informed Rio Ave of the end of his journey with them after the last season, preparing to embark on a new challenge in his professional career within the walls of Camp Nou.