It's clear that Barcelona won't be hurried into making any decisions regarding Marcus Rashford's future following Deco's recent transfer update. The Catalan giants are aware that a lot can transpire for the Manchester United loanee between now and June, despite his success in Spain.
Queries are being raised about when, or if, Barcelona will commit to signing 28-year-old Rashford on a full-time basis. They have the option to convert the Englishman's loan into a permanent transfer for £26million, a sum widely viewed as a bargain given his performance this season.
However, Rashford's form has dipped in recent months, suggesting the Spanish side may have been wise not to act prematurely. Sporting director Deco has provided some crucial insight into the club's approach to transfers ahead of the summer.
Deco appeared on the 'Que t'hi Jugues!' podcast during Barcelona's recent presidential election day. He was questioned about potential interest in Atletico striker Julian Alvarez and emphasised that a lot can change between now and the opening of the summer transfer window.
Whilst he didn't deny Barca's interest, the former Portugal international responded: "Julian Alvarez? There are a lot of unknowns; three months is an eternity."
One can determine precisely why Barcelona aren't acting urgently to finalise Rashford's signing before the deadline on his purchase option expires. Not when the forward's progress could easily be derailed between now and then.
A significant injury could dramatically alter how they view the player as a long-term option, for example. Rashford has remained largely free from injury during his spell at the Camp Nou, though that circumstance could shift at any point.
There's also the reality that the Mancunian's form has declined considerably compared to his blistering start to life in Spain. Rashford hasn't registered a direct goal contribution since January 31, when he scored in a 3-1 thrashing of Elche.
Excitement surrounding his signature quickly gathered momentum when Rashford made an immediate impact under Hansi Flick. He bagged six goals and provided seven assists during the two-month period between mid-September and mid-November in what proved a particularly productive phase.
That's in contrast to a tally of just three goals and one assist between mid-December and mid-March, albeit with a two-week winter break.
In contrast to Alvarez, Barcelona already have a clear idea of the sum required to secure Rashford on a long-term contract. His signature would come at a fraction of the fee, which is positive news for a club that currently can't match the highest spenders in the sport.