Deco knows that sooner rather than later he'll have to think about Robert Lewandowski's successor. The Polish footballer has a contract until 2026, although he's already requested a renewal that would allow him to stay linked until 2027. Whatever the final decision may be, it's clear that Barça needs to prepare for his farewell.
Robert Lewandowski remains important, but he can't lead the culé project forever. That's why, for months now, Deco has considered different profiles that could fit as his replacement. The sporting management team keeps very detailed reports on several young strikers with great potential.
Deco's list of candidates to replace Robert Lewandowski
Alexander Isak, Viktor Gyökeres, Jonathan David, Ademola Lookman, and Benjamin Sesko have all been closely monitored by Barça. All of them stand out for their goal-scoring ability, imposing physique, and strong understanding of offensive play. However, Robert Lewandowski's brilliant performance has halted any attempt to secure an immediate replacement.
Now, the situation has changed dramatically with the emergence of an unexpected competitor from Saudi Arabia. According to the international press, the striker who most resembles Lewandowski is on Saudi soccer's radar. His possible departure could forever close the doors to Barça, and Deco can't allow that.
Saudi Arabia steps in and Deco must make a decision now
That footballer is Benjamin Sesko, Leipzig's reference and one of the most sought-after talents in the European market. Tall, technical, effective in the box, and with great potential, Sesko would fit perfectly into the style Barça is looking for. In addition, Dani Olmo knows him well and his reports have always been positive.
Deco now faces an important dilemma, as he has two very different paths. On one hand, he can keep calm and wait until next summer to try to sign him. On the other, he can get ahead of the Saudi offer and secure his arrival before it's too late.
Signing Benjamin Sesko is a unique opportunity
The first option involves taking risks, because if the striker accepts the Saudi Arabian proposal, he'll move away from Barça. The second option requires negotiating now, knowing that he'll have to coexist with Lewandowski and Ferran Torres for at least a year. But perhaps that coexistence would be the perfect learning experience before taking on the leadership of Barça's attack.
Benjamin Sesko is only 22 years old and his room for improvement is enormous, which makes this opportunity a unique occasion. Barça must consider whether it's willing to bet on the future without waiting for the present to run out. The direction of an ambitious sports project is defined by these kinds of decisions.
Meanwhile, as Robert Lewandowski keeps scoring goals, his shadow grows longer and harder to replace. That's why Deco can't look the other way while Saudi Arabia prepares its offensive. The time to act has come, and Benjamin Sesko could be the answer to many questions.