Barcelona president to meet with superagent during Dubai trip for award ceremony | OneFootball

A new development off the pitch could have important implications for Barcelona as the January transfer window approaches. 

According to a recent report from SPORT, club president Joan Laporta is set to travel to Dubai this weekend, where he is expected to hold a face-to-face meeting with super agent Jorge Mendes.

Interestingly, Laporta’s trip is officially linked to the Globe Soccer Awards, a prestigious gala in which Barcelona will have a strong presence. 

As such, Lamine Yamal is set to receive a major individual award, while the Barcelona women’s team will also be recognised for their achievements. 

However, beyond the celebrations, the timing of Laporta’s presence in Dubai has inevitably fuelled speculation.

Purpose of the meeting

It is said that Laporta plans to use the trip to meet with Jorge Mendes, a figure who continues to hold considerable influence around the Globe Soccer Awards. 

Laporta will meet with Jorge Mendes in Dubai. (Photo by Linnea Rheborg/Getty Images)

With the January transfer market approaching and Barcelona dealing with uncertainty in defence following Andreas Christensen’s injury, the meeting has been interpreted as potentially more than a courtesy encounter.

It must be noted that Barcelona are currently weighing their options in the centre-back position. 

While there is no urgency to rush into a winter signing, the club remain alert to opportunities that could strengthen the squad without compromising long-term planning. 

In that context, a conversation between Laporta and Mendes could open doors to possible solutions, whether in the form of short-term cover or groundwork for future operations.

That said, any potential move would still need to align with the club’s sporting vision. 

Both sporting director Deco and head coach Hansi Flick remain cautious, as internally, Barcelona will only act if a genuinely viable option becomes available.