A soccer player in a red jersey appears next to the FC Barcelona crest on a purple background.

Deal closed with United to bring Rashford: Major loss for Barça

Both entities have reached an agreement, and a key piece of Flick's will leave the Catalan city.

FC Barcelona continues working in the transfer market with the intention of strengthening its team. After the declared interest in Marcus Rashford, Manchester United has set a condition that Joan Laporta and Hansi Flick must consider carefully. The English team wants one of La Masia's great promises as part of the deal to close the operation.

Football player in a red Manchester United shirt at a match.
Marcus Rashford offers himself to Barça | @marcusrashford

A Necessary Reinforcement for Barça

Rashford has become a priority for Barça. With Lewandowski in the final stretch of his career and the need for alternatives in attack, the English forward offers the versatility and experience Flick is looking for. However, Manchester United isn't willing to let him go without getting something significant in return.

The English forward isn't having his best season under Rúben Amorim's management. He's lost prominence in the team and would be willing to seek a change of scenery. For Rashford, Barça represents an exciting challenge, while for the culés it's an opportunity to add quality to the attack at a key moment in the season.

A soccer player in a blue and red uniform raises his arms in celebration at a stadium.
Lewandowski in El Clásico | @FCBarcelona

United has proposed a loan with an option to buy but has added a key clause to the negotiations. Including a player in the operation. This young midfielder is considered one of the most promising gems of Barça and Spanish soccer.

The inclusion would complicate the decision for the Catalan club. Although the player has had fewer minutes in the first team this season, he's still considered an essential pillar for the future.

Football player in a red jersey in front of the FC Barcelona crest.
Signing on the way | en.carpetasfcb.com

In United's Sights

Manchester United's interest in Fermín López isn't new. Last summer, the "Red Devils" presented a 30 million euro offer for the midfielder, but Barça rejected it. Now, with the need to strengthen its attack, the club might reconsider its stance.

Loaning Fermín López would allow the young player to gain experience in the Premier League, one of the most competitive leagues in the world. Additionally, the move would relieve Barça's salary pressure, facilitating Rashford's arrival without compromising the club's finances.

Two soccer players celebrate a goal in a stadium full of spectators.
Fermín with Barça | @FCBarcelona

The agreement seems to benefit both teams. Rashford, known for his speed, versatility, and scoring ability, would fit perfectly into Flick's scheme. Meanwhile, Fermín López could develop in a demanding environment, which would also be an asset for Barça in the future.

For United, incorporating a midfielder with Fermín's skills is a strategic bet. The young player's ability to perform in various midfield positions makes him a valuable asset for any team.

Meteoric Rise of Fermín | @gettyimages

Laporta and Deco's Dilemma

Joan Laporta and Deco face a complex decision. While Rashford offers an immediate solution for the attack, Fermín López represents Barça's future.  The board must assess whether loaning the midfielder is worth the risk of losing one of its great promises.

Additionally, Rashford isn't a sure bet. Although his quality is undeniable, his recent lack of continuity raises doubts. Barça will have to weigh whether this move is truly the best option for its current and future needs.

Fermín with Barça | @FCBarcelona

Signing Rashford would be a coup for Barça in this winter market. He brings experience, versatility, and a different profile to the attack. However, letting Fermín López go isn't an easy decision.

Next week will be crucial to close the deal. Meanwhile, Laporta and Flick are working against the clock to ensure Barça continues competing at the highest level in all competitions. Rashford could be the reinforcement they need, but the price of this move might be too high.