Although Robert Lewandowski remains under contract with FC Barcelona until 2026, the club is already laying the groundwork for a future without their veteran striker. Sporting director Deco acknowledged in a recent interview that long-term planning is underway — and that internal options are already being considered.

"We already have internal solutions for when he's not here," Deco stated, referencing players like Ferran Torres and Dani Olmo — the latter being a potential signing that was previously studied — as possible replacements for the No. 9 role under new coach Hansi Flick.

Strategic planning

Rather than rushing to sign a new striker, Deco emphasized reinforcing the current foundation:

"Renewing players like Pedri, Gavi, Raphinha, Koundé, Frenkie de Jong, Eric García... those renewals are like new signings for us."

He also clarified that a full squad planning session with Flick has not yet taken place, leaving room for possible additions depending on market opportunities:

"We'll talk and see if we can improve the squad."

No urgency for a No. 9 or a winger

When asked specifically about the need to sign a pure striker, Deco downplayed the urgency:

"We don’t need to obsess over signing a No. 9. Look at Inter — they have a classic forward like Thuram, and another one with different characteristics."

As for a new winger, Nico Williams — previously linked to Barcelona — was also addressed. Deco praised the Athletic Club star but hinted that Dani Olmo had shown greater willingness to join in past negotiations:

"Nico is a great player, but we’re looking for balance. A year ago, we were between him and Olmo, and Dani showed more predisposition."

Other names, but no negotiations

Deco also acknowledged that he admires players like Luis Díaz and Marcus Rashford, but emphasized that the club is not engaging in talks for players who are currently under contract elsewhere:

"They’re players I like, but we won’t speak about others who belong to different clubs."