Juventus surge into pole position to hijack Barcelona’s priority target as the Italian heavyweight launches a shock last-minute bid.
With Turin desperate for backline stability amid persistent injury concerns, they’ve opened concrete negotiations while Barcelona carefully navigates FFP constraints for a summer acquisition.
This intensifying transfer race highlights the Blaugrana’s pressing need for experienced left-footed defenders to complement Pau Cubarsí and provide vital rotation options.
The player in question is Marcos Sensei, the commanding Bournemouth defender who’s emerged as Deco’s priority target after impressing with aerial dominance, ball-playing composure, and leadership qualities in the Premier League, as reported by Mundo Deportivo.
The 28-year-old has started nearly every match for the Cherries this season, contributing crucial goals from set pieces while maintaining elite defensive metrics that caught Barcelona’s scouting attention.
Sensei’s appeal lies in his peak maturity—experienced enough for immediate first-team impact at 28, yet offering 4-5 prime years.
His 90% pass accuracy, aerial duel supremacy, and proven leadership position him perfectly as Cubarsí’s long-term partner while easing pressure on injury-prone Gerard Martín and positionally versatile Jules Koundé.
Deco views him as superior to several youth prospects, prioritizing ready-made quality over developmental gambles.
Juventus holds a Serie A advantage through the coach’s personal endorsement and wage competitiveness.
Sensei’s Italian connections and Turin appeal give them momentum, while Barcelona face familiar financial engineering despite a realistic €25-30 million valuation.
Bournemouth’s firm contract stance until 2027 demands swift action from Deco against mounting Italian competition.
Barcelona’s La Liga supremacy masks defensive fragility, making this potential hijacking particularly painful. Juventus’ urgency forces Deco’s hand—match bids or pivot quickly.
As Champions League action against Copenhagen looms, Sensei’s situation mirrors Barcelona’s transfer pressures: secure elite reinforcements or risk backline issues persisting into 2026-27.
The Italian club’s acceleration threatens to turn Barcelona’s scouting triumph into familiar transfer frustration.
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