Summer begins with major moves in the offices at Camp Nou. FC Barcelona's sporting management, led by Deco and backed by Joan Laporta, knows that sales will shape the club's immediate future. The need to comply with LaLiga's financial fair play rules forces tough decisions, and this transfer window will be decisive for restructuring the squad without losing competitiveness.
In this context of financial urgency, any sale exceeding €50 million ($54 million) becomes a blessing. The club can't afford luxuries and has activated its machinery to close deals that free up wage bill. This is precisely where Manchester United comes in, having positioned itself as a possible savior with two interesting proposals.
At Old Trafford, they're closely following the situation of some Barça players. The English club is immersed in its own rebuilding process, looking for names that bring immediate quality and room for growth. In this sense, there are two clear targets, both with different realities but with the potential to fit into the new English project.
The center back who divides the club
Ronald Araújo has been one of Barça's defensive pillars in recent seasons. However, his performance has sparked debate in recent months, and Hansi Flick doesn't consider him indispensable. The German coach prefers a center back with better ball distribution and less tendency for physical clashes, something that has opened the door to a possible sale.
Manchester United has inquired about the Uruguayan and is willing to offer a figure close to €50 million ($54 million). Although Barça believes they could get more, they understand that immediate income would allow them to make urgent reinforcements. The idea of selling Araújo no longer sounds so far-fetched if it means improving other key areas of the team.
In addition, his departure would relieve one of the highest salaries in the locker room. From the Barça offices, freeing up that salary is seen positively, especially if it allows registering new signings within the limit imposed by LaLiga. Flick has already given his approval, which speeds up negotiations.
Trincão, the unexpected surprise
The second move United is considering involves Francisco Trincão. The Portuguese winger is no longer part of the Barça squad, but his contractual situation can still generate income for the Catalan club. If the transfer goes through, Barça could pocket around €20 million ($22 million) without lifting a finger.
Ruben Amorim, who could arrive at Old Trafford, has requested his signing and that would facilitate an agreement. For Barça, it's a perfect deal: income without effort and room for other negotiations. Trincão, who couldn't establish himself in the first team, could now be key to balancing the books.
With both deals, Barça would bring in around €70 million ($76 million) in a matter of weeks. That money would translate into financial muscle to register Joan García, finalize the arrival of Luis Díaz, or even negotiate with other Flick targets. In a window where every euro counts, this double move would be pure gold.
Flick takes control of the project
Hansi Flick has made it clear since his arrival that he wants a squad shaped to his vision. He's not willing to work with players who don't fit his system, no matter how important they've been in the past. Araújo's possible departure follows that logic, just like other exits currently being considered.
Deco, meanwhile, is working to strengthen key positions. The goal, the center of defense, and the attack are the three top priorities. Every euro that comes in will be reinvested wisely, seeking balance between talent, youth, and sustainability.
Manchester United appears on the scene as an unexpected but welcome partner. In this new financial chessboard, their interest in two players not a priority for Flick could unlock half the sporting planning. Right now, everything counts.
