Marcus Rashford's arrival at FC Barcelona has already triggered the first major move within the squad. The English forward arrives at Camp Nou on loan with a purchase option, backed by Hansi Flick. His addition has sped up the departure of a footballer who, despite belonging to the club, wasn't part of the German coach's plans.
The English international brings versatility and experience, but also represents a wage expense that requires adjustments. With a large squad and the need to comply with financial fair play. The sporting management has chosen to part ways with a player who was returning after a loan and didn't have a place in the rotation.
A return without real chances of staying
Oriol Romeu returned to Barça this summer after spending the previous season on loan at Girona. His loan was seen as an opportunity to regain prominence and playing time, but Flick had already decided that he wouldn't be part of his plans for this season.
In midfield, competition is at its highest: Frenkie de Jong, Gündogan, Pedri, Gavi, Sergi Roberto, and young Marc Casadó are Flick's top choices. In this context, Romeu would have been relegated to a marginal role, far from the minutes needed to justify his continuity.
The situation was solved quickly with Rashford's arrival, since freeing up the Catalan midfielder's spot allowed the club to register the Englishman immediately.
Deal closed with Valencia
Valencia had been exploring the market for weeks in search of a midfielder with LaLiga experience and strong tactical positioning. The opportunity arose with Romeu, and within a few days they closed a deal worth around five million euros.
The signed contract is for two seasons plus an optional one, with a salary adapted to the Mestalla club's budget. From the Barça sporting management, the operation is seen as a necessary move: wage bill is reduced, a small income is obtained, and Marcus Rashford's registration is facilitated.
At Mestalla, they trust that Romeu will bring balance, leadership, and defensive ability to the midfield. His experience with teams of different tactical styles makes him a reliable addition to face the season.
The Rashford effect, first chapter of a busy summer
Oriol Romeu's departure is the first side effect of Marcus Rashford's arrival, but at Barça they don't rule out more moves of this kind in the coming weeks. Flick wants a streamlined and competitive squad, without footballers who accumulate frustration due to a lack of playing time.
The Barça fans accept that the transfer market will bring tough decisions, but the goal is clear: strengthen the team without compromising economic stability. With Rashford already registered, the club gains room to keep working on strategic signings.
Oriol Romeu, who returned to the blaugrana club in 2023 after his time at Girona, bids farewell to Barça once again to start a new chapter at Valencia. Where he will seek continuity and prominence.