Barcelona’s sporting director, Deco, has addressed speculation regarding the club’s interest in Manchester City striker Erling Haaland. In a statement to Mundo Deportivo, Deco emphasised that the club is not currently pursuing a new striker, citing the presence of Robert Lewandowski as a key factor. He stated, “First of all, we should check if Haaland is what we need for our project.”
Current Focus on Lewandowski
Deco highlighted that Barcelona is not actively seeking to sign a striker at this time, as they are satisfied with Lewandowski’s contributions. The Polish forward, who has been with Barcelona since 2022, is reportedly in line for a contract extension, as previously reported on 17 October 2024.
Comparisons and Future Considerations
Deco’s comments come amid ongoing comparisons between Haaland and Lewandowski. On 14 November 2024, Deco compared the two players, noting their different styles and contributions to their respective teams. Haaland, known for his prolific goal-scoring ability, has been a standout performer for Manchester City, with manager Pep Guardiola praising his form as “unstoppable” on 31 August 2024.
Barcelona’s Strategic Approach
Deco’s remarks suggest a strategic approach by Barcelona, focusing on evaluating their current squad needs before making any significant moves in the transfer market. The club appears to be prioritising stability and continuity with Lewandowski, while keeping an eye on potential future opportunities.