Barça is clear about where its needs to put all its money for the immediate future: the center-forward position. Robert Lewandowski is already 36 years old and is expected to leave in 2026, when his contract ends permanently. Several names are going around, yet Deco has made it clear who the official choice is: Erling Haaland, from Manchester City.
Speaking to Mundo Deportivo, Deco didn't hesitate when asked about Lewandowski's future replacement. "I think it's very difficult to find a striker like Robert these days. There's one or two at this level. Maybe Haaland or another, there aren't that many at this level available," he said.
The Barça sporting director hasn't stopped there. He also spoke about another of the names that has gained strength until now, Viktor Gyökeres. "He is a good player, he's been scoring goals for a long time in Portugal. We know him like others, but he's not one of our priorities at the moment," he said.
Erling Haaland Chosen: Nike Puts up the Money to Replace Robert Lewandowski
Deco is in no hurry and his strategy is to convince Erling Haaland, his main target, not to leave City until 2026. He has the collaboration of Guardiola, who already likes the agreement.
Laporta's aim is for Haaland to be the special guest in the Barça squad for the inauguration of the new Camp Nou.
The key is to convince him not to accept any offer other than Barça's. That's what Pep Guardiola is there for.
The rest will be covered by the new Camp Nou. As construction nears completion, it will multiply the income it should generate for the club. In addition, Nike is willing to provide a "transfer bonus" as an advance to help Barça solve its problems.
Flick's results please the American company, which has been disappointed with Barça's performance in recent years. The agreement has already been signed and the intention is for a great Nike player to end up wearing the Barça jersey, the chosen one being Erling Haaland.
The Erling Haaland deal will have a high price for Barça, making it the most expensive transfer in its history. Even so, it's worth it. Nike is willing to put more money out of its own pockets to complete this important move.