FC Barcelona's sporting director Deco has revealed details of the club's €100 million bid for Julián Álvarez this summer. In a lengthy interview with 'El Món a RAC 1', reported by Mundo Deportivo, the sporting chief confirmed that Atlético Madrid did not even respond to the proposal, which was structured to be paid over three years. "Barça acted with respect to try to sign Julián Álvarez," Deco stated, highlighting the discretion that characterizes the Blaugrana's transfer working group.
The revelation comes with the team leading La Liga with 12 points after a perfect start of four wins in four matches. This context of sporting success allows Deco to calmly analyze a complex transfer window, where economic restraint and the search for very specific profiles for Hansi Flick's project were most important.
Why didn't Gordon or Bernardo Silva arrive?
Deco detailed the cases of Anthony Gordon and Bernardo Silva, two players who were on the table. Regarding the English winger from Newcastle, he explained that coach Hansi Flick believed he perfectly fit the desired profile: intensity and technical ability. However, operations with the Premier League proved extremely difficult, halting any concrete progress.
In the case of Portuguese midfielder Bernardo Silva from Manchester City, the barrier was purely economic. "Bernardo Silva did not fit the economic parameters despite the interest," the sporting director admitted. The club maintains a strict policy of not making promises about playing time to potential signings, which also influences negotiations with top-level players. You can check the senior squad composition on our squad page.
The market strategy and the Rodri case
The Brazilian also addressed the name of Rodri, Manchester City's defensive midfielder. He acknowledged that he was not initially considered because Barcelona assumed he would stay in England. Only when, through contacts with Hugo Viana, the real possibility of the player seeking an exit was confirmed, did the club speak with his agent. This late approach did not come to fruition.
Deco defended the working method of the sports area, a closed group that avoids leaks. "I get excited by the day-to-day, more than by the matches," he said, reflecting a philosophy of constant building. This mindset aligns with a team that has scored 17 goals and conceded just two so far this season, showing notable solidity.
The Ballon d'Or for Lamine and Raphinha's future
One of the most forceful moments of the talk was when Deco spoke about the Ballon d'Or. "The Ballon d'Or has to be for Lamine. I have no doubt," he stated, comparing the young winger's current dominance to that of Lionel Messi in the past. He recalled that Yamal was key to winning the league last campaign and that, after an injury, he reached the World Cup final.
Regarding the captaincy and future of Raphinha, Deco was clear: the Brazilian is happy at the club and has built his story here. Talks for a contract renewal are underway and will be based on merit. He highlighted how the coach has maximized his performance through excellent emotional management. The team now faces its next fixture, a visit to Levante on September 13, with the confirmed absence of Frenkie de Jong among other sidelined players.
