FC Barcelona is working intensively in the transfer market, with Deco leading the operations to assemble a competitive team that will allow the club to regain its hegemony in Europe. Although the economic situation continues to dictate the course, the sports management considers it crucial to strengthen a position of concern: the forward line.
Robert Lewandowski, despite being one of the team's key players, hasn't shown his best form this season. At 36 years old, the Polish forward is beginning to feel the physical toll of a career full of successes. However, his influence in the locker room and in the sports project is undeniable, something the player himself is not willing to easily relinquish.
The possibility of signing a high-profile forward to share the spotlight with the Polish player is not well received by the latter. Lewandowski doesn't want to be relegated to a secondary role in his final years as a professional. According to close sources, he doesn't rule out leaving if the club decides to bet on a player who would reduce his minutes or prominence.
An ambitious plan to compete with Real Madrid
Despite Lewandowski's position, Deco is clear that Barça needs a forward capable of making a difference. The Brazilian sports director's priority is to find a profile that combines youth, quality, and experience in high-level competitions. Additionally, the goal is to secure a signing that elevates the team's competitiveness, placing it on the same level as Real Madrid with Mbappé.
The market doesn't offer many options that fit these characteristics, but the blaugrana club has already identified the ideal candidate. This move will not be easy, as other major clubs like Atlético de Madrid, Arsenal, and Sporting de Portugal are interested in the same player. The footballer is one of the standout forwards in the world at the moment.
A world-class scorer that excites everyone at the blaugrana club
The player who most appeals to Deco is Viktor Gyökeres, the current forward for Sporting de Portugal. The Swedish forward is having a spectacular season with 34 goals in 33 matches, figures that have made him one of the sensations of European football. His release clause is 100 million euros, although the Lisbon club might accept an offer close to 75 million.
The competition to secure his services will be fierce, as teams like Simeone's Atlético and Arteta's Arsenal also consider him a key piece for their projects. Deco is determined to make a strong bid for the signing, aware that this forward could be the quality leap Barça needs to dream big again.