Joan Laporta and Deco have been working quietly for months to strengthen Barça. Flick's team's good dynamics haven't stopped that work. Since January, they already have several names secured for the next market.
The focus is on strengthening the defense with talent and experience. The idea is to incorporate a proven center-back, without a transfer cost. They prioritize a physical profile, reliable, and with international hierarchy.
Deco secured an agreement in January with a very interesting option
At the beginning of the year, Deco met with a defender who is of great interest to Barça. The meeting was positive, and all the details were agreed upon. The operation was considered closed, pending an official signature.
However, in the last few hours, the scenario has changed. An unexpected renewal within the locker room has altered the initial plans. Now Barça is overthinking it.
Barça, Deco, Laporta: A signing once done is now in danger
Deco's target was Jonathan Tah, Bayer Leverkusen's center-back. Both Laporta and Flick supported his arrival due to his great performance in Germany. The agreement was total, and the player wanted to wear the blaugrana jersey.
Tah's contract ends in the summer, so he would arrive for free. In the meeting with Deco, he expressed his desire to play for Barça as soon as possible. But his signing is now in doubt due to Araújo's possible renewal.
Jonathan Tah grows impatient and wants a definitive answer
The German defender doesn't want to wait forever. He has asked Barça to clarify their position in the coming days. He wants to know if he should keep waiting or look for another alternative for his immediate future.
Tah doesn't hide his excitement about landing in the Spanish League. But at this point in the season, he needs certainties. Barça's doubts could end up distancing him from his dream destination.
Laporta and Deco study how to fit the pieces in defense
With Araújo's continuity hanging in the air, everything depends on a key decision. If he renews, it will be difficult to justify another signing in his same position. If he doesn't stay, Tah would be back on the table with strength.
Deco is evaluating the scenarios with Flick. The coach wants quality reinforcements, but not at any cost. The idea is to maintain salary balance and also give opportunities to young homegrown players.
An uncertainty that must be resolved as soon as possible
Barça can't let more time pass. Tah's pressure is growing, and other European entities are also on the prowl. His signing was a golden opportunity and now is in danger due to a lack of clarity.
If Deco and Laporta don't give a clear answer soon, they could lose a defender who already had everything agreed upon. The ball is in their court. The clock is against them.