Barcelona have found their ideal Robert Lewandowski replacement as Hansi Flick looks to future-proof the attack.
The 21-year-old Chivas sensation, currently joint-top scorer in the Clausura 2026 with 17 goals across 24 appearances, has caught Deco’s eye with his ruthless finishing, aerial prowess, and relentless work rate – qualities tailor-made for Hansi Flick’s high-pressing system amid Robert Lewandowski’s contract twilight.
That attacker is Armando González, the ‘Hormiga’ who exploded as Apertura 2025’s top scorer (12 goals) and MVP, adding five more in derbies against América and Atlas this term, as reported by Fichajes.
Nicknamed ‘Otaku’ for his gaming passion, the Verde Valle academy product has netted hat-tricks, braces, and clutch volleys, averaging a goal every 93 minutes while propelling Chivas to Liga MX leadership.
Barcelona’s opening feelers – rumoured €15-20m plus add-ons – target his €25m valuation, with González’s camp receptive to a Camp Nou leap mirroring Cade Cowell’s Toronto path.
González’s left-footed instincts, hold-up play, and Clásico execution (five goals vs rivals) evoke a budget Darwin Núñez, slotting as Lewandowski rotation or long-term No. 9 amid Vlahović/Kane shortlists.
Chivas’ firm stance demands hefty sell-on clauses, but Deco banks on FFP gains from Marc Casado (€40m Saudi), João Cancelo’s loan limbo, and Alejandro Balde (€60m Inter).
Hansi Flick craves his chaos: 17 goals in 1,609 minutes signal elite conversion rates for a Blaugrana attack buzzing with Lamine Yamal.
For González, Europe tempts after rejecting Monterrey riches, eyeing 2026 World Cup contention via La Liga exposure.
Chivas fans celebrate yet mourn a ‘Rebaño Sagrado’ icon, potentially emulating Chicharito’s Man United glory.
Barcelona’s Mexican scouting revival – post-Pulido whispers – underscores global net-casting, blending Liga MX gems with La Masia like Ajay Tavares.
Securing González would cap Deco’s value hunt: low-risk, high-reward firepower funding Alessandro Bastoni (€80m) or Nobel Mendy (€6m).
As talks progress, this Guadalajara coup could ignite Barcelona’s title defence with CONCACAF flair.
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