FC Barcelona's sporting director, Deco, has held talks with the representatives of two footballers — Paris Saint-Germain's Kang In Lee and Valencia's Javi Guerra — as the club lines up potential summer reinforcements. The meetings, confirmed by sources close to the negotiations, signal Barcelona's intent to strengthen midfield options without triggering a bidding war.
Why these two targets
Kang In Lee, 23, joined PSG last summer from Mallorca but has struggled for regular playing time in Paris. His versatility — he can operate as an attacking midfielder or on either wing — fits the profile Barcelona often seeks. Javi Guerra, 20, has broken into Valencia's first team this season, impressing with his energy and passing range in central midfield. Both players are under contract, meaning any deal would require a transfer fee.
Barcelona's financial constraints
The club remains under strict La Liga salary-cap rules, forcing Deco to prioritize affordable options. Kang In Lee's situation at PSG could make him available for a reasonable fee, while Guerra's release clause at Valencia is reportedly set at €100 million — a figure Barcelona cannot approach. Negotiations would likely center on a structured payment plan or player-swap components.
Deco's transfer strategy
Since taking over as sporting director, Deco has focused on young, technically gifted players who can develop under Xavi. He already brought in Ilkay Gündogan last summer on a free transfer, but the departure of Sergio Busquets left a void in midfield depth. Kang In Lee and Guerra represent different profiles: the South Korean international offers creativity and dribbling, while the Spaniard brings physicality and box-to-box work rate.
What happens next
Barcelona's transfer window opens in June, but Deco is laying groundwork now. The meetings with agents are exploratory — no formal offers have been made. Valencia has publicly stated it does not want to sell Guerra, but the player's contract runs until 2027, giving the club leverage. PSG, meanwhile, has not indicated a willingness to part with Kang In Lee, though the player's playing time could shift that stance. For now, Barcelona watches and waits.
