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Official, sold to Juventus, it's NOT Araújo: Barça left without a number 9, Ferran celebrates

The blaugrana club has decided not to sign a forward in this transfer window and rules out the arrival of Jonathan David

In the 2025 summer transfer market, one of the most notable moves is the official signing of Jonathan David by Juventus. The Canadian forward, who had been on the radar of major European clubs for months, has chosen to start a new chapter in Serie A. His arrival at the Italian side represents a strong statement from Vecchia Signora, which was seeking an important young, versatile, and promising goalscorer.

Barcelona have closely followed Canadian Jonathan David during several transfer windows; he was one of the names that most convinced part of the sporting management. The idea was to sign him to give the attack some rest, especially thinking about a future without Robert Lewandowski. However, the deal could never be finalized. Among the reasons, the financial demands of Lille and the player's desire to have a leading role from the start stand out.

Two players in blue and red uniforms celebrate on the field while one of them makes a hand gesture.
Ferran Torres stays | @FCBarcelona

Meanwhile, Barça have made a surprising but firm decision: they won't sign any forward this summer to compete directly with Lewandowski. The Polish striker, who has made it clear on several occasions that he's uncomfortable with the arrival of possible replacements, will continue to be the undisputed "9". The club has chosen to keep internal stability and avoid friction within the locker room.

Flick protects Ferran

With this decision, the one who comes out stronger is Ferran Torres. The Valencian winger has convinced Hansi Flick during the preseason. His versatility, commitment, and performance have allowed him to climb positions in the attacking rotation.  Although his natural position is on the wing, the German coach values him as a valid option also as a false nine.

Ferran has known how to wait for his moment, has rejected offers to leave the club, and trusts this will be his year. The message from the offices is clear: he has the support of the coaching staff and the opportunity to establish himself in the culé squad. For now, the fans are beginning to appreciate his effort, and his name is gaining momentum as one of the possible "dark horses" of the season.

Laporta and Deco look to the future

Meanwhile, Joan Laporta and Deco don't lose sight of the future. Although there won't be a star signing in the attack this summer, the club still dreams big.  The two big names on the medium-term agenda are Julián Álvarez and Erling Haaland. Both players are highly regarded by the board, and the conditions for 2026 are being studied.

While that happens, Barcelona are clear that they're betting on what they already have. Lewandowski will remain the attacking reference, but they know Ferran Torres's prominence will increase. The former Manchester City player doesn't want to be a supporting actor. With Jonathan David out of the equation, he's stepped up. The market has spoken, and Ferran Torres has won; he'll be Lewandowski's replacement this season.