Deco: Barcelona wanted Lautaro, but Inter said no

Barcelona's sporting director admits the club tried to sign Inter captain Lautaro Martinez this summer, only to be shut down immediately.

Lautaro Martínez

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What happened. Barcelona director Deco confirmed the club attempted to sign Lautaro Martinez this summer, but backed off as soon as Inter said he was not for sale. Deco added that Barcelona never contacted the player or his agent after that response.

• Deco said Barcelona respected Inter's stance and did not go beyond their initial approach.
• The story emerged after Barcelona's first choice Julian Alvarez was blocked by Atletico Madrid.
• Deco admitted Barcelona still like Lautaro and could try again in the future.

“When Inter told us he was not for sale, we never contacted the player or his agent.”

— Deco

Lautaro remains Inter's captain and key striker, but Deco's comments suggest Barcelona could return for him in a future window.

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