Barça has been very active so far in this transfer market. One of the main targets for the sporting director was Luis Díaz, the Colombian winger from Liverpool, whose quality and experience made him an ideal option to strengthen the attack. However, the financial demands of the English club made the transfer unfeasible.
Liverpool was asking for more than €80 million for its player, a figure out of Barça's reach at this time, given the salary restrictions and the need to adjust the budget.
Deco did everything possible to convince the footballer's entourage and Liverpool's executives, but there was no room for negotiation. The Catalan club understood that it couldn't mortgage its finances for a single player, no matter how desired he was. Thus, the option of Luis Díaz was left behind and other alternatives were activated.
Rashford, an intelligent solution
Given the impossibility of signing Luis Díaz, Barça reacted quickly. Thanks to Deco's management, the club has managed to finalize the loan of Marcus Rashford. The English international arrives on loan, in a deal that includes a non-mandatory purchase option.
Moreover, Rashford arrives highly motivated and with the intention of relaunching his career after an inconsistent spell in England. It is believed that, with a favorable environment and a coach like Hansi Flick, the player can return to his best level. His talent is undeniable, and if he regains confidence, he can be a highly impactful signing for the season.
Versatility for the blaugrana attack
Hansi Flick had been asking for weeks for a reinforcement for the left wing, and now he has it. Marcus Rashford will cover that position, but not only that. One of his strengths is his versatility: he can play both on the wing and as a center forward.
This will allow the German coach to have more tactical options and, above all, better manage Robert Lewandowski's minutes. Rashford's arrival will also increase internal competition. Players like Raphinha or Lamine Yamal will have to keep performing at their best if they want to remain in the starting eleven.
Flick still waiting on a renewal
Beyond the signings, Flick also wants something more. According to El Nacional, the German coach has personally asked Deco to finalize Frenkie de Jong's renewal as soon as possible. The Dutch midfielder was a key piece last season and is indispensable in Barça's system.
Frenkie's contract ends in 2026, and the club wants to avoid at all costs having him enter his final year without a signed contract. Flick fully trusts him and considers him one of the leaders of the project. The ball is now in Deco's court, who will have to negotiate with the player and his entourage to ensure his continuity.