Barcelona seeks new striker, sporting director Deco confirms

Barcelona is actively exploring the summer transfer market for a new center-forward, according to sporting director Deco. The club aims to further solidify its squad for the current season, potentially adding a 'number nine' to complement existing signings.

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We know there are two players up front like Robert (Lewandoswki) and Ferran (Torres) who have left. Ferran's role we can cover with the new signings, but replacing Robert is very difficult, because he marked an era with us.

Deco acknowledged the significant void left by Robert Lewandowski's departure, describing his impact as having "marked an era." While noting that the roles of Lewandowski and Ferran Torres can be covered by new acquisitions, he stressed that replacing Lewandowski's specific contribution is exceptionally challenging. "We have internal solutions, but surely we are going to make some movement," Deco stated after Barcelona's 2-1 victory over Al-Ahly in the Joan Gamper Trophy.

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We have internal solutions, but surely we are going to make some movement.

The club has already secured wingers Anthony Gordon and Karim Adeyemi, along with full-back Joao Cancelo and midfielder Rodri. Deco also commented on the signing of Rodri, revealing that the midfielder was not initially a target. However, upon discovering the opportunity, Barcelona moved swiftly to secure him, believing he will significantly improve the team.

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we did express our concern with regard to where we are today, three months before the elections.

Deco dismissed any notion that the signing of Rodri was intended to fuel rivalry with Real Madrid, who were initially considered favorites to sign the player. He emphasized that the decision was based purely on the midfielder's attributes, calling him one of the best in his position globally.

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the operation was carried out exclusively for the attributes of the midfielder, whom he defined as one of the best in the world in his position.