Deco reveals details behind failed Julián Álvarez deal and decides Hamza Abdulkarim's fate

Barcelona's sporting director Deco has revealed new details regarding the club's attempt to sign Argentine striker Julián Álvarez from Atlético during the summer transfer window, confirming that Barcelona handled the deal correctly.

Diko stated, "FC Barcelona did not exert any pressure on Julián Álvarez to publicly express his desire to leave Atlético. That was his personal decision."

The sporting director of FC Barcelona said: "We have done things correctly. We made a formal and suitable offer, but we have not received any response from Atlético."

Deco explained that Atlético's position was clear throughout the negotiations, stating: "They were always telling us that they did not want to sell the player, and you cannot keep insisting on the same thing over and over again."

He continued: "We do not lack a goal-scoring striker... Raphinha is performing exceptionally well in the striker position, while Gabriel Jesus is the closest to occupy the number 9 striker role, but he is also a player with great ability to link up and participate in build-up play."

Hamza Abdelkarim, a true number 9 striker, is seen as a forward for the future.