Barcelona sporting director Deco issues transfer update on futures of three stars

By JEORGE BIRD

Barcelona sporting director Deco has given an update on the futures of three of the club’s stars.

The three players have been linked with potential moves away from the club during the transfer window.

Deco admitted that one of the players could depart but stressed that he is eager for the other two to remain.

Barcelona have already made one major signing this summer, bringing in goalkeeper Joan Garcia from Espanyol.

In terms of departures, Clement Lenglet had his contract terminated by mutual consent to allow him to join Atletico Madrid permanently, while youngster Alex Valle joined Como. 

Barcelona will now be targeting further success after winning LaLiga and the Copa del Rey last season.

Barcelona sporting director Deco has given an update on the futures of three of the club’s stars

Frenkie de Jong has just a year remaining on his contract and has frequently been linked with Manchester United. 

However, Deco is determined to keep the midfielder, who made 46 appearances for Barcelona last season across all competitions. 

Deco told La Vanguardia: ‘The Frenkie we had this season is the Frenkie we want. We want to continue with Frenkie, he has one more year on his contract and we are going to analyse things calmly.’

Defender Ronald Araujo, meanwhile, endured problems with injuries last season but Deco still values the Uruguay international highly and is determined to keep him.

Deco said: ‘What we want is to improve the team, not make it worse. And if we lose an important piece, we are making it worse. Ronald has a contract, has renewed and has suffered a difficult season, with unfair criticism. 

‘He is one of the best centre-backs in the world. Leaving is not in Ronald’s plans. He wants to return to his best level.’ 

One player who could depart Barcelona, however, is Ansu Fati.

The winger was on the fringes for Barcelona last season and could be allowed to leave on loan so that he can play regularly, with Monaco a potential destination.

Deco revealed that he is eager for midfielder Frenkie de Jong to sign a new contract 

In addition, Deco wants to ensure that defender Ronald Araujo remains at Barcelona

However, Barcelona could allow winger Ansu Fati to leave the club on loan this summer

Deco said: ‘With the age he is and the career he has had, he cannot be without playing. We are open to not putting problems if he wants to leave. Monaco have spoken to us. Ansu has a contract, if they ask for him it would be a loan. He’s 23 years old, we talk about him as if he were 30, but for me he still has a lot to grow and learn.’ 

Athletic Bilbao winger Nico Williams is reportedly eager to sign for Barcelona this summer.  

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Barcelona sporting director Deco issues transfer update on futures of three stars

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