FC Barcelona: Deco planning a major move for the number 9 position

Barcelona sporting director Deco has placed the search for a long-term successor to Robert Lewandowski at the top of the club’s summer agenda, with internal discussions already focusing on two headline targets to spearhead the next decade of Blaugrana attack.

Julián Álvarez, the 24-year-old Argentine World Cup winner, sits at the forefront of the shortlist. Despite a subdued statistical return this season, his relentless movement, sharp finishing and proven ability to operate in fluid, high-tempo systems have convinced the Catalan hierarchy that he can evolve into the reference point up front.

Competing with Álvarez for priority status is Harry Kane. The Bayern Munich striker remains among Europe’s most prolific marksmen, though Barcelona officials are weighing the England captain’s immediate goal impact against the long-term value compromised by his age.

Beyond the front pair, Victor Osimhen and Omar Marmoush remain under active review as alternative profiles, while the possibility of pursuing Juventus forward Dušan Vlahović has already been discarded by the club.

With Lewandowski entering the twilight of his career, Deco’s remit is clear: secure a marquee number 9 capable of inheriting the central striking mantle and sustaining Barcelona’s attacking pedigree once the Polish veteran moves on.