Deco Reveals Why Lautaro Martinez Didn't Join Barcelona

Barcelona's sporting director, Deco, clarified the reasons why Inter striker Lautaro Martinez did not join the Catalan giants this summer.

"Out of respect for the player and the club. The moment Inter informed us they did not wish to part with him, we ceased all communication attempts. We strive to act fairly and with utmost clarity. Sometimes there are many speculations in the press, but the clubs know the truth," Deco stated.

"Is Lautaro a Barcelona-caliber player? That's true. He was among the players we considered. When the Barcelona president spoke with Inter's management, they told him the player was not for sale. Out of respect, we did not pursue further discussions, neither with the player himself nor with his agent," Deco added to "Sportitalia."

Lautaro Martinez became a transfer target for the Catalans after Atletico Madrid's categorical refusal to sell them Julian Alvarez. Subsequently, Barça strengthened their squad with Gabriel Jesus from Arsenal.