Deco Sets Barcelona’s 2026 Transfer Priorities, Downplays Need for a Traditional No. 9
The sporting director signals a development-first, budget-conscious approach that could prioritize internal options over a marquee striker.
Overview
- Club planning for summer 2026 focuses on three roles, with reports highlighting a left-footed centre-back, a physically strong full-back and a top-class centre-forward.
- Deco said Barcelona should not be obsessed with signing a new striker, noted Ferran Torres can lead the line and cited PSG’s Champions League win without a specialist No. 9.
- The search for a left-footed centre-back follows Íñigo Martínez’s exit, with Nico Schlotterbeck and Gonçalo Inácio repeatedly mentioned as scouted options.
- Spanish reports indicate a premier centre-forward would be costly and could require a major sale to fund any move.
- Lewandowski’s deal runs to the end of 2025/26, with Deco insisting renewal talks will wait as the club prioritizes stability and the return of injured players.