The season is coming to an end and Deco has urgently gotten to work. He knows that there are important decisions that can't wait. The priority is to finalize several key departures before planning new signings.
Although the group's performance has been positive, Deco believes that some names must leave the first team's dynamics. Keeping the competitive level requires strategic moves. That's why there is already a list of priority departures.
Ansu Fati has been on the exit ramp for months
The first to leave Barça this summer will be Ansu Fati. The '10' started with enthusiasm after his loan, but soccer was relentless. He has only played 298 minutes throughout the season.
That limited prominence has not gone unnoticed in Barça's offices. His high salary also doesn't help in considering continuity. Therefore, Deco has already made the decision to seek a definitive exit for him.
However, to the surprise of many, Ansu Fati will not be the first to say goodbye. There is an even more urgent case than that of the homegrown player. That is of a defender returning this summer to the Barça locker room.
Clément Lenglet leaves before Ansu Fati
Clément Lenglet, who is on loan this season at Atlético de Madrid, will not return to FC Barcelona. His loan ends on June 1st and he should return to Barcelona. But neither Flick nor Deco count on him for the future.
The Frenchman has performed well under Simeone's orders, with important minutes and a good defensive level. However, Atlético doesn't seem interested in keeping him. The high cost of his salary complicates his continuity, so Clément Lenglet will have to find a new team.
Deco seeks alternatives to free up salary mass
The sports management is already looking for a new destination for Clément Lenglet before he rejoins Barça's dynamics. The goal is to finalize his departure as soon as possible. None of the parties view a new preseason with him favorably.
His situation is similar to that of other loaned players who have no place in Flick's project. Barça can't afford such high salaries for non-priority profiles. Therefore, his goodbye will be a reality in weeks.
Deco accelerates
Deco wants to free up salary mass and focus on signings that improve collective performance. His work is essential for the immediate future. The sale of Clément Lenglet opens a new opportunity to strengthen the weakest areas of the Barça scheme.
Barça is preparing for a silent but deep renewal. Not everyone will continue in Hansi Flick's new project. The decisions have already been made, and the moves have already begun.