Barcelona appoint former player Deco as club's new sporting director

The appointment of the former Barca and Portugal playmaker comes after director of football Mateu Alemany agreed to be released from his role once the transfer window closes on 2 September.

Alemany's scheduled departure from Barcelona was announced in May and he will now work alongside Deco until early next month.

Deco, who played for the Catalan club between 2004 and 2008, will work closely with the coaches in heading the footballing department at the Nou Camp.

The club will release details of their new sporting structure under their new director over the coming weeks.

Prior to Wednesday's announcement, Deco had already been working  in conjunction with Alemany and first team coach Xavi Hernandez on recruitment.

He has already played a key role in helping close an agreement for striker Vitor Roque, who will join Barca from Athletico Paranaense next year.

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