Barcelona have reached an agreement with former Portugal midfielder Deco to become their new sporting director at Camp Nou, 90min understands.
It's set to be a huge summer at Barça, with current chief Jordi Cruyff confirmed as leaving at the end of the season alongside Mateu Alemany, who will link up with Unai Emery at Aston Villa.
A spot in La Blaugrana's hierarchy has opened up and agent Deco is on good terms with president Joan Laporta. Deco made over 150 appearances for the club in four seasons, winning La Liga twice and the Champions League before joining Chelsea in 2008.
90min has learned Barça were impressed by the 45-year-old's role in Raphinha's transfer from Leeds last summer. The Brazilian winger signed for up £55m and has been linked with an exit in the transfer window, though has reiterated his desire to stay.
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His arrival would also be key for two important Catalan figures, one being manager Xavi and the other Lionel Messi. Xavi has been informed of Deco's return and is happy to see his former teammate return.
Deco is also very close to current Paris Saint-Germain attacker Messi, who is edging towards a return to Catalonia. Barça are hugely confident of announcing Messi's signing soon, though Saudi Arabian outfit Al Hilal have also tried to muscle their way into the bidding.
The Argentine World Cup winner prefers a return to his old stomping ground, however, and Deco's arrival is another sign of the club preparing for Messi's homecoming.
Club president Laporta recently claimed Barça and Messi have "recovered" their relationship and added: "We will do everything we can to bring Leo Messi back to Barcelona."
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This article was originally published on 90min as Barcelona agree terms with club legend as new sporting director.
