Barcelona sporting director addresses Yamal’s contract renewal and reveals PSG attempted to sign him | OneFootball

Barcelona sporting director Deco has offered fans a massive boost regarding the future of teenage sensation Lamine Yamal.

In an interview with RAC1, Deco confirmed that the club is well on track to secure a new long-term contract for the 17-year-old star, with the deal expected to be signed once Yamal turns 18 on July 13.

Deco did not shy away from praising the young winger’s extraordinary maturity and humility. “Lamine is a player with a maturity that’s unusual. I have a son the same age,” Deco shared, clearly impressed by the teenager’s attitude both on and off the pitch.

The sporting director also clarified that “He didn’t ask to be the highest-paid player on the team — that’s not true. He just wants to be happy here.”

The club’s message is clear that Yamal is central to Barça’s future. “It’s not about whether he’s 17 or 26. Football has to be fair, and he has to have a contract that suits him.

“The most important thing is that he’s happy. And there’s no better club for him than Barça,” Deco stated firmly.

There is no one like Yamal

Yamal has become the symbol of the new Barcelona — confident, homegrown, and fearless. After a sensational breakthrough season under Xavi, his consistency, confidence in hostile stadiums, and technical brilliance have captured the attention of the footballing world.

Lamine Yamal is set to sign a new contract with Barcelona. (Photo by Alex Caparros/Getty Images)

“He has the self-confidence that distinguishes players,” Deco said. “That ability to separate himself from the noise in big stadiums like Milan and Madrid — that’s the greatest thing about him. He’s a distinguishing player.”

Deco also revealed that there was interest in Yamal last season, notably from PSG, though Real Madrid never made a move.

“Yes, last season, not this one yet, but what we want is for him to stay. We don’t want to listen to offers. PSG asked, but Real Madrid didn’t,”  he asserted, reiterating that the club’s plan is to build around the teenager rather than entertain any potential departures.

In fact, Deco described Lamine Yamal’s renewal as “Barça’s best signing”, even going so far as to tip the youngster for future Ballon d’Or glory.

“We have some players who can reach that level, and Lamine is one of them,” Deco said.

“Raphinha, for the season he’s had, is spectacular, but we’ll see. Of course, I would like a Barça player to win the Ballon d’Or,” he concluded.

Source: Mundo Deportivo