AC Milan has offered Barça a swap deal that addresses both squad challenges this summer. With this proposal, they could bring in a top-level winger and improve internal finances at the same time. Deco and Laporta are now studying this option with special attention.
Díaz and Williams face insurmountable financial barriers
Both direct deals clash with the club's salary cap and financial limitations.
The signing of Luis Díaz is blocked: Liverpool is asking for €80 million and a high salary. Athletic is demanding €64 million in a single payment for Nico Williams, which is also complicated. Barça needs to free up wage bill space before tackling any larger operation.
Nico Williams with Athletic | @nicolas_williams9
A three-way swap that could connect everything if the deal is closed properly.
Milan is including Rafael Leão in the deal, a right-sided winger with goal-scoring ability and dribbling skills. In exchange, it is offering a powerful, experienced center-back plus a young midfielder with potential. This strategy covers two key positions without putting culé finances in debt and allows adaptation to Flick's needs.
Leao | AC Milan
Flick demands a right winger with directness to boost Balde
The German coach is looking to complement his full-back with an agile and incisive profile.
With Raphinha moving inside, the left flank is left open, where Balde stands out. Flick wants a winger who cuts in from the right, driving into the box with explosive directness. Rafael Leão would fit naturally thanks to his profile and experience in European competitions.
Hansi Flick | @FCBarcelona
The emerging midfielder would leave with more playing opportunities, freeing up salary and space.
For Milan, Torre is an asset with potential, who would help improve its midfield. His move abroad would provide continuity for his development while Barça frees up wage bill space. In addition, his inclusion facilitates financial compensation without actual cost for either squad.
Pablo Torre with Barça | @FCBarcelona
Economic and sporting benefits for Barça
A high-level signing would be secured without breaking the financial fair play imposed by LaLiga.
It would eliminate the need to pay nearly €140 million in cash for a single winger. It would include two players functional to Flick's system and keep reserves for future signings. It would also avoid advertising disputes typical of international negotiations.
Rafael Leão with AC Milan | @iamrafaeleao93
This deal would show intelligence and sporting pragmatism, values welcomed by all.
The squad would welcome Leão's signing for his goal-scoring ability and constant directness. The fans would see coherence in strengthening key positions without improvising in the market. In addition, Araujo and Torre away from the squad provide room to sign more young players or consolidate the current core.
Ronald Araujo during a training session | @FCBarcelona
Key clauses for the deal to go through
Negotiating will require fine adjustments that satisfy both entities without causing discontent.
Milan will demand a long contract for Araujo, while Barça wants to ensure economic return from Torre. Performance-based variables and percentages for future sales are also being considered. Finally, Leão must be convinced that his role will be important in the culé project.
Ronald Araujo is going through a difficult time | @FCBarcelona
If closed, this triple swap would become an example of an efficient and responsible market.
Barça would strengthen two key positions in attack and defense with established talent. It would free up wage bill space and avoid large cash outlays. It would be a clear sign of planning and boldness from Deco and Flick.
The proposed swap would bring Rafael Leão to FC Barcelona. In return, AC Milan would receive Ronald Araujo and Pablo Torre, thus solving the club's tactical and financial needs.
