Deco’s Plan to Strengthen Barcelona’s Roster

The sporting director of Barcelona, Deco, confirmed that the club is capable of making signings in the upcoming summer transfer window on the condition that some large salaries, such as Robert Lewandowski’s, are offloaded and two major sales are achieved. This would allow the 1:1 rule to be applied and deals to be activated naturally. Deco added that the plan was developed in coordination with coach Hans Flick, and they are waiting for the elections to conclude in order to implement it.

He explained that the goal is to maintain the team’s backbone, with only specific players leaving due to an excess in certain positions and their insufficient participation. He emphasized that these decisions are necessary to raise the salary cap and secure the financial resources needed for new deals. He also noted that selling some players might be used to reduce the cost of upcoming major deals.

The first decisions concern Robert Lewandowski, who, if he wants to stay, will need to significantly reduce his salary. The club is also looking to resolve the situations of Marc-André ter Stegen and Ansu Fati to provide greater financial flexibility to move freely in the market.

The execution of the two sales will provide funding for two major deals to strengthen the team, specifically a central forward and a central defender. The situation of a right or left-back will also be considered, whether from local players or by retaining Joao Cancelo, or by looking for a suitable deal without significant investment. Deco’s actual negotiations are expected to begin at the end of March after identifying potential names and alternatives.