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SOCCER

Confirmed! Deco seals Barça's first signing for 2026 for €30M

The sporting director needs to get the checkbook ready because Flick knows exactly which signing needs to be made

The figure of Deco as sporting director at Barça has become key in the reconfiguration of the club's project. In recent times, he has handled signings, contract renewals, and departures with a clear vision for the future. In addition, the club's improved financial situation has allowed it to move with greater freedom and achieve better results.

Barça, after several years of restructuring and salary adjustments, has regained the ability to bring in top-level players. That financial stability already provides room to make significant investments. Therefore, Deco can afford to make planned signings in advance instead of emergency solutions.

Two men watching from a railing while holding bottles of water.
Deco and Hansi Flick talking at Ciutat Esportiva | FCB

Deco has decided: 30 million and signed

In this scenario, Marcus Rashford emerges as the first major target for the summer of 2026. The English forward has seen an opportunity at Barça that he wasn't going to let slip by, aware that it was his last chance to become a protagonist in a major league. His start to the season has been remarkable: he has adapted well, has added goals and assists, and has convinced the coaching staff and the fans.

According to Marca, Deco considers it necessary to pay the 30 million (€30 million) that were set at the time as a purchase option to finalize his signing in 2026. That amount is considerably lower than what elite forwards usually cost, which makes the operation a masterstroke. Deco and his team believe that Marcus Rashford represents an affordable alternative, with potential and a good fit for the club's philosophy.

Marcus Rashford, a 30 million gift

Tactically, Marcus Rashford brings speed, mobility, finishing, and adaptability to different attacking roles. In Hansi Flick's system, he can play on the wing or as a striker, which increases his value for Barça. In addition, his contract and the terms of the loan have made the purchase option fall within a manageable range.

Deco's management shows that the club is thinking in the medium term. It's not just about covering an immediate need, but about projecting a forward who can lead in the future. With Lewandowski in the twilight of his career, Barça needs a replacement soon, and Marcus Rashford appears to be that player capable of taking on responsibilities.

Deco is close to completing Barça's first major market move for 2026. Marcus Rashford is the chosen name, the amount is around 30 million (€30 million), and the deal is on the table. If everything goes as planned, the current loanee will sign his contract as a culé for many years.

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