Barça is clear that the top priority for the next summer transfer market is to strengthen the forward line. Lamine Yamal, Raphinha, and especially Robert Lewandowski, need reliable replacements, and Deco knows it. The Polish forward, despite his performance, is already in the final stretch of his career, and Barça knows it needs to start planning for a future without him.
Laporta, aware of the importance of this move, wants to make a bold statement and secure a high-profile signing. The forward line is an essential piece for the club's long-term goals, and the sports management is committed to working on it.
Deco's Second Priority
Meanwhile, Deco's other major priority is the acquisition of a goalkeeper for the future. Currently, the club has Iñaki Peña and Wojciech Szczęsny as temporary solutions in the goal, but neither convinces as long-term options.
Barça wants to sign a young, high-level goalkeeper with potential to ensure a solid future in the goal. The situation with Ter Stegen also influences this decision, as it is unknown how he will return after his injury. Thus, Deco is in search of a goalkeeper who guarantees stability between the posts for the coming years.
Ter Stegen Raises Doubts
The German, although he has been one of the team's pillars in recent years, raises concerns at Barça due to his injury. The uncertainty about his full recovery has caused doubts within the club about whether he will be able to maintain the expected level of performance.
For this reason, Barcelona doesn't want to rely exclusively on Szczęsny or Iñaki, who haven't proven to be definitive long-term solutions. The club considers it crucial to have a high-level goalkeeper who can become the leader of the goal for many years.
The Two Options Barça Has
Regarding market options, the one most liked within the club is Diogo Costa, Porto's goalkeeper. Costa has been one of the best goalkeepers in the Portuguese league in recent years, and his youth and quality make him a very attractive option for Barça.
However, his signing would be complicated due to the high price Porto would demand, which makes his incorporation very difficult. Additionally, Barcelona would have to compete with other clubs for his signing, increasing the complexity of the operation.
On the other hand, according to 'El Nacional.cat', Barça also has Joan García on its agenda, Espanyol's goalkeeper. Joan is highly valued within the club's sports management, but his relationship with Espanyol could be an obstacle. The rivalry between the two clubs could complicate possible negotiations, making his signing difficult to finalize, but the club might try this summer.