Barcelona sporting director Deco addressed the transfer rumours surrounding two key players, Frenkie de Jong and Ronald Araujo, after the club recorded a commanding 4-0 victory against Getafe in a La Liga match.
Amid efforts by the Catalan giants to improve their financial situation, there have been suggestions that the club might seek to raise funds through player sales during the summer transfer window.
One of the players linked with a potential departure is Araujo, with reports indicating that the Uruguayan international is a target for German powerhouse Bayern Munich.
However, Barcelona manager Xavi recently stressed the importance of retaining Araujo's services, despite the reported interest from Bayern.
Similarly, there have been speculations surrounding De Jong's future in recent weeks, initially suggesting he might be open to a departure in the summer. These rumours have led to the Netherlands international being linked with moves to Manchester United, Chelsea, and Paris Saint-Germain.
Nevertheless, De Jong dismissed these speculations as "lies" ahead of Wednesday's Champions League draw with Napoli.
Deco has now affirmed that Barcelona are eager to keep both Araujo and De Jong beyond the current season.
"What will happen to Araujo and De Jong? Nothing will happen," the Barcelona sporting director said in an interview with Movistar.
"They have a contract and we want to keep the best. And they are the best. They are footballers of the present and the future.
"They are players who have earned the right to be at Barca, and they have earned the respect of the fans and the club. We want to continue counting on them."
Araujo, whose contract extends until the summer of 2026, has featured in 25 of his 28 competitive appearances this season, including Saturday's 4-0 victory over Getafe. In the same match, De Jong scored his second goal of the season, marking his 14th consecutive start in all competitions.
Although De Jong's current contract runs until June 2026, discussions are reportedly underway to extend his stay with the reigning La Liga champions.
Barcelona currently occupy the second position in the league, trailing leaders Real Madrid by five points. Real Madrid are set to face Sevilla at the Santiago Bernabeu on Sunday evening.
