According to Mundo Deportivo, Barcelona sporting director Deco has travelled to the United States, where he is set to attend several World Cup matches as the tournament enters its knockout stages.
With numerous Barcelona players still competing and several transfer targets remaining in action, the trip offers the club’s football chief an opportunity to follow key players firsthand.
Barcelona players and transfer targets
Among the players Deco is expected to watch closely are Portugal right-back Joao Cancelo, whose loan spell at Barcelona officially ended on 30 June, and Atletico Madrid and Argentina striker Julian Alvarez, who remains one of the club’s primary transfer objectives.
The tournament also features several Barcelona internationals representing their respective countries.
Focus on Barcelona’s international stars
Particular attention will be given to Spain, where Barcelona have eight players in the national team squad.
Deco is also expected to follow Brazil, to watch Raphinha, who has recovered from his hamstring injury and resumed training on Friday.
Meanwhile, Jules Kounde continues to play a key role for France and will have the club director’s attention, especially with rumours around his future.
Deco will also have an eye on the matches involving England, featuring new Barcelona signing Anthony Gordon, who had a quiet tournament up until the Round of 32.
Portugal, a country where Deco remains a celebrated former international, is also of special interest for the Barça director.
The Portuguese national team are scheduled to face Spain in one of the standout Round of 16 fixtures at the World Cup, with Lamine Yamal, Pau Cubarsi, Pedri, and Dani Olmo all expected to start and have a prominent role for La Roja.
More than scouting
Although the visit coincides with the World Cup, Deco’s trip is not primarily focused on scouting new players.
Barcelona’s recruitment department has already carried out extensive talent monitoring throughout the past season.
Instead, the sporting director is expected to use the opportunity to strengthen relationships within the football world, meeting coaches, club officials and players while maintaining Barcelona’s presence during one of the sport’s biggest international events.
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