Deco keeps working on many fronts beyond the arrivals of Joan García and Nico Williams at Camp Nou. The sporting director is clear that there are still many issues to solve. Among them is the departure of several footballers who are not part of Hansi Flick's plans.
The future of Pau Víctor, Pablo Torre, and Ansu Fati seems practically decided, although the details are still missing. All of them will leave this summer, but it remains to be seen where they will go and under what conditions. The truth is that Deco needs to free up wage bill and space in the locker room.
Deco studies major departures at Barça
Beyond those moves, there are cases that even create doubts within the board. Frenkie de Jong, Ronald Araújo, and Andreas Christensen have a good international reputation. However, the decisions will not depend only on sporting matters, but also on financial ones.
In the case of the Dutchman, his continuity seems secure due to his unique style. But the same can't be said for the two defenders. One has been injured almost the entire season and the other could leave if a major offer arrives.
Christensen and Araújo under Deco's microscope
Andreas Christensen has a market, although his value has dropped due to his constant physical issues. If an offer between €10 and €20 million ($10.9M–$21.8M) arrives, it will be considered. Meanwhile, Ronald Araújo has a €65 million ($70.8M) release clause that will be active starting July 1.
In that context, Deco doesn't want surprises and is already preparing a possible replacement. He has identified a young profile, with good ball distribution and room for improvement. Barça's sporting management has already started contacts with his camp.
Kevin Lomónaco enters the scene as an alternative
The defender in question is Kevin Lomónaco, a 23-year-old Argentine center-back who plays for Independiente in the Argentine league. He is left-footed, with good ball control and a strong physique. In addition, he stands out for his competitive character and good defensive reading.
Lomónaco has had an irregular career, marked by a recent suspension for sports betting. However, from Argentina they assure that the footballer has made a radical change. If Ronald Araújo or Andreas Christensen end up leaving, Kevin Lomónaco gains momentum to play for Barça.
Deco considers an immediate or medium-term transfer
The signing of Kevin Lomónaco could be completed for an amount close to €6 million ($6.5M). This is a manageable figure, especially if there are previous sales. The operation, for now, is in an initial phase of monitoring and technical analysis.
Deco doesn't want to rush, but he also doesn't want to be left without options if one of the center-backs leaves. The Argentine has the approval of the scouting department. In addition, he has already been observed in several matches during the first half of the year.
A possible bet on the future in defense
For now, neither Andreas Christensen nor Ronald Araújo have secured their continuity for next season. Everything will depend on offers, injuries, and financial needs. But if there is a departure, Kevin Lomónaco could be the chosen one to strengthen Barça's defensive core.
The sporting management is working in advance to avoid losing room for maneuver. Lomónaco, young and hungry, represents a different profile. Above all, he could arrive without altering the club's finances too much.