Deco: "Lamine Yamal extension is the real transfer window success"

Following a highly successful campaign, Barcelona are already preparing for a potentially busy summer in the Catalan capital, with numerous rumours linking the club to reinforcements for Hansi Flick's squad. Nonetheless, Deco insisted that "the signing of the season" would be "a long-term contract" for the young winger.

In an interview with RAC1, Deco revealed that negotiations are "on the right track" and praised Yamal for his maturity and modesty. "He hasn't asked to be the highest-paid player in the squad, and he shows a maturity well beyond his years," Deco said.

"We have to be delighted with Lamine – it's rare to see a player emerge with such quality, character and self-confidence. But we mustn't forget he's only 17. He needs to enjoy his age and be happy. What matters most is that he feels content. PSG already came asking about him last year. We must give him a contract that reflects what he deserves," he added.

On the broader squad planning for next season, Deco explained that the club's strategy is to strengthen the foundations already in place – a team that has delivered silverware in the form of La Liga, the Copa del Rey and the Spanish Super Cup.

"Renewing Pedri, Gavi, Raphinha, Kounde, Frenkie, Eric… We need to treat renewals as if they were signings. The good thing is we already have a solid squad, which means we don't face as many headaches when putting next season's team together," he said.

Deco also revealed that he has yet to sit down with Hansi Flick to discuss next season's plans in detail. "We'll speak in due course about whether we can improve the squad," he concluded.