Deco had a move planned for this summer that could become one of the star transfers of the market. The plan was to bring back one of the gems that once slipped away from La Masia. A young player, with potential, who has shown his level in the European elite over the past seasons.
The plan was clear: convince the player, offer him a leading role in Flick's Barça, and activate an affordable formula. But the plans have changed in the last few hours due to an unexpected competitor. Chelsea has entered the operation with force and is willing to go all out.
Enzo Maresca, the new coach of the English side, has given the green light to an offensive that threatens to ruin Deco's work. The Italian believes the profile fits perfectly in his playing model. The blue sporting management is already preparing an offer close to €70 million.
Open duel between Barça and Chelsea
Meanwhile, Barça keeps its firm interest, although it acknowledges that the financial conditions are very demanding. The German club doesn't want to negotiate below that figure, and at Camp Nou they can't match it. That's why they're working on alternative formulas: loan, purchase option, or deferred payments.
For weeks, Deco has kept in contact with the player's entourage and with close intermediaries. Flick has also given the green light to his signing and believes he can be a key piece in his project. The idea is for him to play as an attacking midfielder or winger depending on the system.
But with Chelsea pushing hard, the scenario has changed drastically. The English club is offering a higher salary, an immediate role, and the chance to compete in the Premier right away. In London, they're convinced they have the advantage if Barça doesn't react quickly.
Internal support and external pressure
This situation hasn't gone unnoticed in Barça's locker room. Several players, especially the young ones, have expressed their desire to have him next season. One of the most insistent has been Alejandro Balde, a personal friend and former teammate in the youth ranks.
The signing is also well received by established figures, who see him as a strategic reinforcement. Not only for his quality, but for his knowledge of the environment and Barça's style. He was trained in the blaugrana academy and that greatly facilitates his integration into the group.
Although he left the club years ago due to a lack of opportunities, his development has been steady and his maturity evident. In Paris, he showed personality, and in Germany he has become a reference for his team. Now he believes the time has come to return home.
The future is in his hands
Despite the English pressure, the player's entourage insists that there's still no final decision. They know Barça is his home and that returning would be special for him and his circle. They also know they can't wait forever for an answer that never comes.
If Deco doesn't react in the coming days, the path to Stamford Bridge will become increasingly clear. In London, they're already preparing everything to convince him: minutes, responsibility, and a firm commitment from Maresca. Chelsea wants to close the signing as soon as possible and keep him definitively off the culé radar.
Everything is open, but time is running against Barça. The player values the project, the emotional connection, and the style that has always accompanied him. The ball is now in Xavi Simons's hands.
