Joan Laporta and Deco don't rest. After the elimination in the Champions League and just days before facing Real Madrid, Barça accelerates its planning for the next season. The priority is clear: sign a forward with potential, European level... and without a transfer fee.
Lewandowski has had a remarkable season in terms of scoring. But he will turn 37 in 2026, and his physicality no longer makes the difference as before. The club believes it is time to find him a replacement that doesn't compromise the finances.
Ferran Torres has been another key piece in attack. His 19 goals have convinced Flick, but the player wants more prominence. A sale is not ruled out if a significant offer arrives.
The "9" dreamed of: young, lethal... and free in summer
With this scenario, Deco has already activated a target that excites everyone at Camp Nou: Jonathan David. The Canadian from Lille has closed a spectacular season in Ligue 1 with 23 goals and 9 assists. And best of all: his contract ends on June 30.
Barça has been following him for months and believes he fits perfectly into Flick's scheme. He is a modern forward, fast, with the ability to associate and create danger from outside the box. His profile is reminiscent of the more mobile Lewandowski... but ten years younger.
The operation is ideal: the player would arrive free, and only the salary would need to be negotiated. In a context where every euro counts, it's an opportunity that Barça doesn't intend to miss.
He wants to come... but there's competition
From the player's environment, clear signals have arrived. Jonathan David looks favorably on wearing the blaugrana and has LaLiga among his priorities. The Canadian believes that Barça's style would favor him to make the definitive leap in his career.
However, Inter Milan has also made a move. The Italian club is in advanced negotiations and wants to close the signing before Barça reacts. West Ham is also lurking, although it wouldn't be the player's preferred destination.
Meanwhile, Barça knows it can't compete with high salaries. But it can offer him minutes, visibility, and an ambitious project led by Flick and young players like Lamine Yamal. And that, in his case, could weigh more than money.
Imminent decision: Barça makes a move
Joan Laporta has already given the green light to activate the operation. Deco has contacted the player's agents and hopes to finalize a formal proposal in the coming days. The idea is to close the deal before the Eurocup starts.
Jonathan David is a bet for the present and the future. His age, performance, and cost make him a strategic signing that would fit into the new Barça. The club doesn't want another "Güler case" to repeat.
Lewandowski will continue, but he can no longer play everything. Ferran could leave. And the Canadian appears as the perfect complement to strengthen a forward line that aspires to reign in Europe.
Barça already has its "9" for the new cycle. Now they just need to convince him that his destiny is at Camp Nou.