Barcelona have made a surprise acquisition in the form of beIN presenter Jerome Bigot.

The La Liga champions are delving deeper into the vast talent pools of French football and the Catalan giants, on the recommendation of new sporting director Eric Abidal, have signed the television presenter on a three-year deal as a scout, according to ESPN.

The two worked together while on duty for beIN France and Barcelona legend Abidal is said to have been very impressed by Bigot’s level of knowledge.

French trio Ousmane Dembele, Samuel Umtiti and Clement Lenglet are already key members of Ernesto Valverde’s squad and it is hoped Bigot will be the man to help unlock more talents from the home of the world champions.

According to sources who spoke to ESPN, Bigot has been described as “respectful, loyal and a good professional.”