Barça is planning the squad for the next season and, among the plans, is the idea of strengthening the winger position. They need an striker who can offer breakthroughs at key moments, and the list of potential additions is long. Deco didn't expect to receive an offer in the last few hours: the young Jesús Rodríguez, defined at Betis as the new Joaquín.
Jesús Rodríguez has debuted this season with Betis and has left a great impression, to the point of becoming a regular for Pellegrini. The youth player has scored 1 goal and provided 1 assist in a total of 14 matches across the League, Cup, and Conference League. He has attracted the interest of several major clubs in Europe, which has forced the Verdiblancos to renew his contract.
After standing out with Betis over several matches, he already has a contract until 2029 and a release clause to which the Andalusians refer in case of departure. At the moment, it is set at 35 million euros, although it can rise to 50 million if deemed necessary... implying a salary increase that is already agreed upon.
Deco considers it: Jesús Rodríguez is the new Joaquín
The reality is that Jesús Rodríguez meets all the requirements sought in a winger by Barça. However, he is not a priority, and there would be other profiles on the table that are more convincing.
Jesús Rodríguez's price is also not favorable, potentially costing up to 50 million euros in full for Betis. The Verdiblancos do not want to negotiate his possible departure, and Barça has no intention of paying his full release clause.
The plan at Barça is clear: to closely monitor the Betis youth player over the coming months. No doors are closed, although the possibility of Jesús Rodríguez ending up playing at Camp Nou is really remote.
Deco has other priorities in the search for a winger and would be alert to a player of higher level and recognition. Jesús Rodríguez is appealing, he is the new Joaquín, but at Barça, they are not willing to pay any price to take him from Betis.