Barcelona looking at options in the South American market, discussions started with Deco

Former Barcelona professional Deco has been of real help to the club in recent years. The Brazilian had played a critical role in ensuring the transfer of Raphinha in the summer, despite competition from a host of Premier League clubs including Arsenal.

In a recent development, Deco has been spotted in a car with Barcelona’s Mateu Alemany today. The two were discussing Barça’s options in the South American market, reports Que T’hi Jugues.

The meeting between Deco and Alemany’s meeting comes in the midst of Barcelona’s reported pursuit of Brazilian starlet Wesley.

The young right-back is set to join Barça Athletic on a loan deal until the end of the season. His contract would include a non-mandatory purchase option, in what could be seen as a push from Barcelona to add more South American talents to their ranks.

The Catalans, though, have not been successful in the South American market in recent years. They famously missed out on the capture of Argentine duo Enzo Fernandez and Julian Alvarez at the start of 2022. Most recently, they have missed out on the pursuit of Brazilian whizkid Endrick, who agreed to join their arch-rivals Real Madrid.

Barcelona have failed in their pursuit of another Brazilian in the form of Andrey Santos, who has joined Chelsea. But it appears the club are determined to avoid any more mishaps in the South American market and are ready to utilise the services of Deco.

The 45-year-old, who has been working as a scout for Barça since 2021, has a vast knowledge of South American football, which has developed a series of talented young players in recent years, some of who even played a crucial role in helping Argentina lift the World Cup title in December.

Barcelona now seek to maximise this boom as they look for market opportunities to sign up and coming talents in the continent.