News Focus
- Joan Laporta confirms Barcelona have funds to buy new players this summer
- Robert Lewandowski will leave the club when his contract ends next month
- The president suggests Julián Álvarez could replace the Polish striker
- Barcelona won La Liga and the Spanish Super Cup this season
- Laporta begins his fourth term as president in July
Barcelona president Joan Laporta says the club can afford to sign new players during the summer transfer window. The Catalan leader spoke to reporters on Wednesday about his plans for the next season.
Laporta will start his fourth term as club president in July. He praised the team for winning both the La Liga title and the Spanish Super Cup this year. The club missed out on the Champions League trophy, but the domestic success gives them a strong base for next season.
“These are wonderful moments to look back on,” Laporta said. “We have won the league two times in a row. The squad works well together. Deco does an excellent job, and Hansi Flick feels very positive about our future. But next year will be tougher. The players know they are creating their own history.”
The president also spoke about Robert Lewandowski. The Polish striker announced he will leave Barcelona when his current deal expires at the end of June.
“Lewandowski is now part of Barcelona’s history,” Laporta stated. “We thank him for everything. He gave us sporting respect when we really needed it. He also helped us financially. He joined during a hard period and gave so much to the team.”
When reporters asked about finding a new striker, Laporta mentioned Julián Álvarez. The Argentine forward currently plays for Atlético Madrid.
“You must ask Deco about Julián,” Laporta said. “We will have the money to sign the players we need to become stronger.”
Sporting director Deco will lead the search for Lewandowski’s replacement. Barcelona want to improve their attack before defending their league title next term.