The Barça market remains on fire after the surprising contract renewal of Nico Williams with Athletic Club until 2035. In Barça's offices, they have already completely ruled out signing him, erasing his name from any future offensive plans. Now, the club is looking for alternatives and has set its sights on two very different profiles.
One is Luís Díaz, Deco's favorite and with proven experience at the top-level of European soccer. The other is Marcus Rashford, who has made a strong comeback as a very appealing option for Hansi Flick's new Barça. The English winger has already taken the first step by showing his willingness to land at Camp Nou.
Rashford wants a change of scenery after another falling out in Manchester
The player's situation at Old Trafford has been unsustainable for weeks, and even months. With the arrival of Rúben Amorim, Rashford has lost prominence until he has been completely sidelined. They have even taken away the number "10" jersey from him, which now belongs to Matheus Cunha.
In addition, the coaching staff has made it clear to him that he is not part of the plans for this new stage. The club is already looking for a definitive exit, ruling out any possibility of a loan like the one he had with Aston Villa. The door is open and the player has not hesitated to point to Barça as his ideal destination.
Joan Laporta's circle likes his profile: speed, verticality, international experience, and hunger to prove himself. In addition, his contractual and sporting situation considerably reduces the cost of a deal that just a year ago was unthinkable. But the player doesn't want to repeat past mistakes.
Rashford demands sporting guarantees before saying yes. He wants to know if Flick sees him as a starter or just as an alternative to rotate with Raphinha and Lamine Yamal. He is not asking for privileges, but he does want continuity and minutes to regain his lost confidence.
Marcus Rashford has a clear goal in mind: to be included in England's squad for the World Cup. The arrival of Thomas Tuchel on the England bench has restored his excitement, but he knows he must get back to his best level. For that, he needs to play regularly in a competitive team.
Barça offers him that scenario, but the player himself wants a direct conversation with Flick before finalizing anything. He will not accept being a regular substitute or signing without knowing his exact role. The project excites him, but only if he feels he has a relevant role from day one.
The figures of the possible deal with Barça
The deal, as it stands right now, could be closed for an amount close to 45 million euros. Manchester United has already given its approval to negotiate around that amount, knowing that the player wants to leave. They are not considering more loans or disguised transfers: only a definitive sale.
As for the salary, Rashford has accepted a considerable reduction from his current wage, which exceeds 15 million net per year in England. To wear the blaugrana jersey, he would be willing to earn between 7 and 8 million net, signing for four seasons, with variables based on titles and minutes played.
This salary flexibility has been very well received by Deco and Laporta. Financial fair play continues to condition the moves, and such a gesture greatly facilitates the talks. If Flick gives his approval, the deal could be closed before the end of the week.