Barcelona’s sporting director Deco has dismissed the possibility of Frenkie De Jong or Ronald Araujo leaving the club in the summer, despite ongoing speculation linking them with moves to Manchester United.
While Barcelona continues to grapple with financial challenges, including a reduced salary cap imposed by La Liga, Deco maintains that De Jong, Araujo, and Robert Lewandowski are not among the players set to depart.
Despite persistent rumors suggesting De Jong’s potential move to Old Trafford and Araujo’s touted transfer to Manchester United, Deco insists that neither of these transfers will materialize this year.
‘Nothing will happen to them [Araujo and De Jong],’ Deco told Movistar.
‘They have a contract and all the big clubs want to keep their best players and these are some of the best. They are important players for now and for the future.
‘They have earned the right to be here and the respect of the fans and everyone. We know where we want to go and we are counting on them.
‘He [Lewandowski] is a world-class reference. He has a great ability to score goals. I have seen very few players as professional and dedicated to football as him. He is a gift for us.’
Both Frenkie De Jong and Ronald Araujo have been integral members of Xavi’s starting lineup this season, with De Jong making 26 appearances in all competitions and Araujo featuring in 28 matches. Meanwhile, Robert Lewandowski has been a standout performer, leading the team with 18 goals in 35 appearances across all competitions.
Regardless of the potential departures of these players, FC Barcelona is poised for a summer of significant changes at the Camp Nou, as Xavi has announced his decision to step down as manager. While there has been no official announcement regarding his replacement, several names have been linked with the role, including Hansi Flick, Rafael Marquez, Roebrto De Zerbi, and Thomas Tuchel. The transition in managerial leadership signals a period of transition and uncertainty for the club.