FC Barcelona Prepares for a New Era in Its History. With the return to the renovated Camp Nou and a healthier economy, Joan Laporta wants to recover the lost shine of recent years. To achieve this, he has bet on a global figure who can lead the new blaugrana project.
Initially, Neymar was the leading candidate to be that high-profile name. The club considered his return as a publicity coup. However, the technical management, led by Hansi Flick, has been clear: that profile no longer fits with the new roadmap.
Neymar Moves Away and Barça Changes Plan
The Brazilian is currently negotiating with Bayern Munich, where his signing seems more viable. His salary, injury history, and lack of continuity have been decisive factors for Barça to withdraw from the bidding. Instead, the sports management has prioritized a more consistent, committed, and fit player.
At Camp Nou, they are looking for a figure who not only attracts marketing but also performs from day one. The new Barça idol had to have experience, a winning mentality, and the ability to make a difference. That profile has already been identified.
The Goal: Fill the New Camp Nou with Real Soccer
With the new stadium about to open, Laporta wants the first major signing of this stage to represent more than a media operation. It's about consolidating a competitive sports model. For that, the new star had to have Flick's endorsement.
In recent weeks, a name has emerged that has been gaining strength. A world-class player who has been offered to the club and has already shown total willingness to wear the blaugrana jersey. The operation is advanced.
Deco has led the conversations with the player's entourage. Figures, contract duration, and possible clauses have been discussed. Most importantly: the idea that the player will be a key piece in the new Barça has been aligned.
The coaching staff considers him ideal to lead a young and ambitious locker room. He has experience on big nights, maintains an impeccable physical level, and continues to be decisive in the opponent's area. The sports management already sees him as the emblem of the new project.
Terms of the Agreement
The agreed contract includes a duration of three seasons. Additionally, it includes a signing bonus of 50 million euros, which will be prorated over the term. At the salary level, the player has accepted a significant reduction compared to what he earns at his current club.
He will earn 15 million net per season, a figure manageable within the new blaugrana economic model. He has rejected offers from Saudi Arabia for more than double that amount. For him, the priority is to live a "last great dance" in the elite of European soccer.
Barça's new signing is Mohamed Salah. The Egyptian is finishing his contract with Liverpool and has already communicated his decision not to renew. He wants a new challenge and has chosen Barça as the ideal destination to close his stage in Europe on a high note.
Salah has requested only one condition: that no other top-level right winger be signed during his stay. Hansi Flick has given his approval, and the operation will be official in the coming weeks. Laporta already has his new top-tier.