May 31, 2025 | By Thomas Lim, GxiSports Correspondent
Barcelona’s sporting director, Deco, has quashed speculation surrounding a potential move for Sporting CP’s prolific striker Viktor Gyökeres, emphasizing the club’s satisfaction with current star Robert Lewandowski. In a statement shared on X by transfer expert Fabrizio Romano, Deco praised Gyökeres but made it clear that Barcelona are not seeking a new number 9 at this time. “Gyökeres is a great striker who did excellent things at Sporting, but we’re currently not looking for that position,” Deco said. “We have Lewandowski at number 9.”
The comments come amid growing buzz about Gyökeres, the 26-year-old Swedish forward who has been lighting up the Portuguese Primeira Liga with his goal-scoring prowess. Previous reports suggested Barcelona viewed Gyökeres as a long-term successor to Lewandowski, with plans to sign him for around €70-75 million next summer and potentially loan him back to Sporting CP until 2026. However, Deco’s latest remarks indicate the club’s focus remains on leveraging Lewandowski’s experience and form, with the Polish striker continuing to deliver at an elite level despite being 37.
This development may disappoint fans eager for a blockbuster signing, but it underscores Barcelona’s strategic approach to squad planning. Lewandowski, a former Bayern Munich star, remains a cornerstone of Hansi Flick’s attacking setup, consistently finding the net in La Liga and the UEFA Champions League. Deco’s confidence in the veteran forward signals a commitment to stability, with the club prioritizing other areas of the squad for reinforcement.
As the transfer window approaches, Gyökeres is likely to remain a hot topic, with clubs across Europe monitoring his situation. For now, though, Barcelona’s focus is clear: Lewandowski is their man. Stay tuned for more updates on Barcelona’s transfer strategy as the summer window nears.
