Deco Flies Out on Emergency Mission to Complete Barcelona’s First €70M Signing

Catalan newspaper *Sport* reported in what it described as “breaking news” that Barcelona sporting director Deco has travelled on an emergency trip to complete the club’s first summer signing.

Barcelona are looking to strengthen their attack by signing a natural No. 9 striker as well as a left winger, amid uncertainty surrounding the futures of Robert Lewandowski and Marcus Rashford, whose ties with the club are expected to end at the conclusion of the season.

According to *Sport*, citing information from sources close to the player, Deco travelled to London to meet the representatives of Brazilian forward João Pedro, who currently plays for Chelsea F.C..

João Pedro has reportedly become Barcelona’s primary target to reinforce the striker position following complications in the pursuit of Julián Álvarez. Atlético Madrid are said to have informed Barcelona that they have received offers far exceeding the amount the Catalan club can afford to pay.

Barcelona believe João Pedro fits the profile of striker wanted by head coach Hansi Flick, prompting the club to move early in negotiations. According to *Sport*, Deco could also hold a direct meeting with the player himself after tomorrow’s FA Cup Final clash between Manchester City F.C. and Chelsea.

*Sport* concluded its report by stating that Barcelona’s sporting department sees João Pedro as a perfect fit for the club’s football philosophy. They view him as a modern striker with pace, technical quality, strong link-up play, and a natural eye for goal.

In addition, the club highly values his young age and significant room for development. As a result, João Pedro is currently considered the leading candidate to become Barcelona’s next No. 9, in a deal worth around €70 million, according to further reports published today by *Mundo Deportivo*.