Barca agree pre-contract deal with Brazilian Arthur

BARCELONA, March 10 (Reuters) - Barcelona have reached a deal with Brazilian side Gremio to sign midfielder Arthur for a potential 39 million euros ($47.99 million), the Spanish league leaders said on Sunday.

The Catalans can choose to activate the deal for the 21-year-old playmaker in July 2018 if they wish to follow through with the signing.

“In the event that the club finally exercises the option signed, the price of the transfer is set at 30 million euros plus 9 million euros in variable amounts,” Barcelona said in a statement.

Arthur, who is known for his passing ability, shone in the Libertadores Cup as he helped Gremio to lift the South American trophy for the third time in November.