No Robert Lewandowski replacement? Barcelona director Deco says signing a No.9 would be 'a mistake' amid Erling Haaland and Serhou Guirassy links

Barca director Deco has shut down speculation about the club’s search for a new No.9, despite increasing reports linking them with moves for Borussia Dortmund striker Guirassy and Manchester City star Haaland. The Portuguese executive, speaking to Catalunya Radio’s Tot Costa, stated that the club will not rush into signing a striker, especially while veteran forward Lewa remains under contract until 2026.

Deco’s remarks come amid growing uncertainty over Lewa’s long-term future. The 37-year-old Polish striker is in his fourth season at the club and has alternated duties with Ferran Torres, who has transitioned into a more central role under Hansi Flick. Yet, Deco insists that Camp Nou’s focus should not be on a replacement, but on strengthening the existing squad and managing renewals wisely.

In his interview, Deco was direct about the club’s current transfer stance. “We shouldn’t be obsessed with signing a number 9,” he said. “Perhaps you can do without one. This isn’t the time to talk about signings. Ferran can play as a 9.” The sporting director went on to explain that chasing a marquee striker could distract from the team’s broader progress under Flick.

Deco also highlighted Paris Saint-Germain’s Champions League-winning campaign as an example of tactical evolution. “PSG won the Champions League without a penalty-area player. Talking about a ‘9’ is a bit of a mistake, although there are good players,” he remarked. His comments underline a shift in the club’s approach, preferring adaptability and mobility in attack over a traditional target man.

While Deco was firm about transfer policy, he acknowledged that Lewa's future would be assessed in due time. “We’re not going to talk about renewals in October,” he said. “He’s one of the best forwards of recent years, a top-level player who’s helped us a lot. We’ll analyse that later. It’s time to talk about recovering injured players.”

The Polish striker remains a key figure for Flick, but his age and contract length suggest that Barca are already exploring long-term options. Despite rumours of interest in Guirassy and Haaland, Deco’s comments suggest the club’s financial constraints and new sporting vision may take precedence over another high-profile signing.

Despite Deco’s caution, Barca continue to be linked with top strikers across Europe. Reports in Spain claim that Borussia Dortmund are prepared to let Guirassy leave for €65 million next summer, while Haaland remains a long-term dream target for president Joan Laporta. While, City boss Pep Guardiola recently said: “Can you tell me one club that wouldn’t dream of Erling Haaland?” a reminder of how difficult such a deal would be, amid the high demand of the Norwegian when he's at his top form.

Meanwhile, Flick has shown confidence in Ferran Torres as a capable No.9, using him in rotation with Lewa. His versatility and energy suit Flick’s high-pressing system, aligning with Deco’s emphasis on internal solutions rather than external spending.

Barcelona’s focus now shifts to consolidating form under Flick as they continue to battle injuries and await their long-delayed return to the Spotify Camp Nou, as they are set to face Girona in La Liga but again in Montjuic. The club’s strategic direction under Deco and Laporta appears clear, renew key players, trust internal depth, and avoid hasty spending.