Sport
Deco Says PSG Tried to Sign Lamine Yamal Last Season but Barcelona Said No
Barcelona’s director Deco has confirmed that French side PSG made an attempt to sign teenage star Lamine Yamal last season. The interest came after Yamal impressed on the international stage, playing a key role in Spain’s Euro triumph. PSG were quick to make a move, hoping to land the rising talent.
Speaking to RAC1, Deco said the reports about PSG’s approach were true, but made it clear that Barcelona had no plans to let Yamal go. “Yes, they asked last season. Not this one,” he said. “But we’re not listening to offers. PSG showed interest, but Real Madrid didn’t.”
Deco, a former Barcelona and Chelsea midfielder, added that the club has turned down every bid for the 17-year-old, who remains untouchable. Yamal has been a major part of Barcelona’s success this season, helping them secure the LaLiga title, Copa del Rey, and the Supercopa de España.
Fenerbahçe have entered the race to sign Napoli striker Victor Osimhen, a player Galatasaray are hoping to bring back this summer. Reports from Ekol Sports reveal that Fenerbahçe’s president, Ali Koç, has tabled the highest offer so far to Napoli in an attempt to lure the Nigerian forward to their squad.
Galatasaray, who had Osimhen on loan last season, are also keen to keep him permanently. The 25-year-old played a vital role in their success last season, helping the club secure both the Turkish Cup and the Super Lig title. Although Galatasaray have made their offer, they’re still waiting for Osimhen to make a final decision.
The Super Eagles star is currently on summer break and hasn’t revealed where he plans to play next season. Several top clubs across Europe and beyond are monitoring his situation. Aside from Fenerbahçe and Galatasaray, Juventus, Manchester United, Arsenal, Chelsea, and Saudi giants Al Hilal have all shown interest.
However, sources close to Osimhen say his first option is to rejoin Galatasaray on a permanent deal, but only if a move to one of Europe’s biggest clubs doesn’t materialize during this summer transfer window.
Former Real Madrid legend Luis Figo has shared his top picks for this year’s Ballon d’Or. With the winner set to be announced in September, many names are in the running, but Figo believes three players stand out.
The Portuguese icon pointed to Ousmane Dembele, Lamine Yamal, and Vitinha as his favourites to take home football’s biggest individual honour. “All three had incredible seasons with their clubs,” Figo said in a chat with Sport Bible.
He added, “There are plenty of players who deserve it based on how they performed. But in the end, it depends on what matters more; your individual stats or the trophies you’ve won.” Figo also admitted the final decision is out of his hands, saying, “It’s not up to me, but I personally like players like Lamine, Vitinha, and Dembele; they’ve all been outstanding this season.”
Real Madrid boss Carlo Ancelotti has expressed his desire to have Kylian Mbappe and Endrick back on the pitch as soon as possible. Ancelotti shared his thoughts after Los Blancos sealed a comfortable 3-0 win over RB Salzburg in the FIFA Club World Cup, thanks to goals from Vinicius Junior, Valverde, and Gonzalo Garcia.
Both Mbappe and Endrick missed the game, with Mbappe sidelined due to gastroenteritis and Endrick still nursing a hamstring injury. “We want Mbappe back fully fit,” Ancelotti said after the match. “I can’t say for sure if he’ll feature on Tuesday against Juventus, but we’re hopeful.”
He also gave an update on Endrick’s condition, saying, “He’s still recovering, but we expect him to join the squad in the US for training. I’m counting on him for what’s ahead.”
