FC Barcelona sporting director Anderson Luis de Souza ‘Deco’ expressed confidence that the club will successfully extend Lamine Yamal’s contract, which currently runs until June 2026. He also admitted that one of the team’s priorities in the upcoming transfer window will be to strengthen the attacking line.

In an interview with ESPN, Deco made it clear that the young winger’s camp is fully committed to the club’s project. “Players have to be happy where they are, and I can’t see Lamine at a better place than here. He’s from the academy, he grew up here, and he’s part of a generation that can make history. If I were him, I’d want to be here. I don’t see any issues, especially since he has a contract. The renewal will happen eventually,” he explained.

Barcelona aims to secure Yamal and find reinforcements to ease attacking pressure

The former Portuguese international also gave insight into the club’s internal assessment of the current season, in which the team at times relied heavily on Yamal and fellow winger Raphinha.

“There were moments when it felt like we lacked options in the final third. We might need players with similar characteristics, so we’re not so dependent when they’re unavailable,” Deco stated, signaling that bolstering the attack will be a key focus this summer.

Despite the need for reinforcements, he praised the current squad’s balance and highlighted the importance of the youth players coming through La Masía, who he believes will play a vital role in the club’s future. “We have a lot of talent from the academy who are ready to step up. What matters now is solidifying the core of this group,” he added.

Finally, Deco emphasized the club’s intention to retain its core players, as shown by the recent contract extensions. “I don’t think any player is looking to leave. Our focus is on keeping the squad together and finalizing the remaining renewals. Last year we said we couldn’t afford to lose anyone, and that still holds true,” he concluded.