Following the news that Deco has officially been appointed as Barcelona’s new sporting director, transfer targets that the Portuguese icon placed emphasis on have a greater chance of being recruited now.
One of Xavi and the Blaugrana hierarchy’s major concerns continues to be strengthening the right-back department.
The issues on the right flank were especially amplified in the pre-season games and the league opener against Getafe.
Even though Xavi and Mateu Alemany are seeking a more experienced option with Manchester City’s Joao Cancelo, particularly the coach’s preference, Deco continues to prioritize the arrival of Real Valladolid’s young sensation, Ivan Fresneda.
Fresneda closer to Barcelona
Deco was already involved in the club’s transfer business behind closed doors, but with his status as a sporting director now official, Deco’s decisions undeniably hold more weight.
According to Moi Llorens, Deco being in charge means that Fresneda is closer to Barcelona.
The Portuegese’s liking for the 18-year-old had already been made clear, as he remains his priority for the right-back spot.
Fresneda’s contract with Valladolid contains a €20 million release clause, but the Catalan giants have no intention of matching that sum.
Instead, reports suggest that the La Liga champions could make an offer worth €9 million plus €6 million in add-ons to convince Valladolid.
Meanwhile, with the Cancelo operation close to completion, the club is working to sign him on a loan deal and reduce City’s buy-back option to €25 million.
The Manchester City man has already agreed terms with Barça and is pushing for the move.
Now, it remains to be seen whether the Blaugrana hierarchy will work to bring in Cancelo and Fresneda both this summer or prioritize only one of them.
If the Catalans sign both, there is a good chance that Fresneda could be allowed to leave on loan to continue his development.
