Barcelona’s sporting director, Anderson Luis de Souza ‘Deco’, has highlighted that the renewal of Lamine Yamal is the most important signing for the season.
In an interview, Deco mentioned that the conversations for Yamal’s renewal are going well, highlighting the young player’s maturity, who has not requested to be the highest paid in the team.
We have to be happy with Lamine, it’s rare for a player with so much quality, personality and self-confidence to appear… But we must not forget that he is 17 years old, he has to live the age he is and he has to be happy. The important thing is that he is happy
Deco
Regarding the planning for next season, Deco explained that the main strategy is to reinforce the current team.
Deco pointed out the importance of renewing key players such as Pedri, Gavi, Raphinha, Kounde, Frenkie de Jong, and Eric Garcia, considering these renewals as strategic signings.
Renew Pedri, Gavi, Raphinha, Kounde, Frenkie (de Jong), Eric (Garcia)… We have to think that the renewals have to be signings. Our luck is that we have a team that doesn’t demand us so much headache to do the one for next season
Deco
Regarding the search for a possible replacement for Robert Lewandowski, Deco indicated that the club already has internal alternatives in the squad, such as Ferran Torres and Dani Olmo.
Deco also mentioned that the club will not obsess over the search for a specific center forward.
Regarding the possibility of signing wingers, Deco did not offer specific details, although he acknowledged his admiration for Luis Díaz and Marcus Rashford, without being able to speak about players with a current contract.
Regarding Nico Williams, Deco suggested that he is not in the club’s plans, prioritizing the team’s balance over individuality.
Finally, Deco addressed the situation of the goalkeeping position, mentioning that the market is being analyzed to improve that position in the future, considering the age of Marc-André ter Stegen and Wojciech Szczesny.
Deco highlighted Joan García, Espanyol’s goalkeeper, as a good goalkeeper.
The sports director also commented on Real Madrid’s reinforcements, highlighting that the club is seeking balance in its squad.
Deco concluded by stating that Barcelona will have to improve to continue competing and that next season will be more difficult.
