FC Barcelona is working against the clock to strengthen its team, and Marcus Rashford's name tops Hansi Flick's list of targets. However, the delicate financial situation of the blaugrana club limits its moves in the transfer market. With the 1:1 rule recently reinstated, any addition depends on generating significant departures to free up space in the wage bill.
The Bet on Marcus Rashford
Rashford, a forward for Manchester United, is an obsession for Barça. His ability to play in various attacking positions and his goal-scoring capacity make him the ideal player to meet the team's needs. Flick himself has insisted on his signing, convinced that the Englishman can make a difference in key matches.
The main hurdle is economic. To sign Rashford, Barça needs to free up at least 20 million euros in the wage bill, in addition to raising a similar amount to finalize the deal with Manchester United.
Departures, Key to Opening Space
Initially, the possibility of selling Ansu Fati was considered, as he has lost prominence in Flick's scheme. However, the player has repeatedly refused to leave the club, forcing the management to seek other alternatives.
The focus has shifted to the defense, where Barça has five center-backs for two positions. Pau Cubarsí, Ronald Araújo, Íñigo Martínez, Eric García, and another player whose future is now in question. Although Eric García was also on the transferable list, it was ultimately decided to keep him until the end of the season.
In this context, Barça is considering the departure of a player who, although key in the past, has lost his indispensable role after a long injury. With a contract until 2026 and a market value estimated at 20 million, his transfer would allow immediate income generation and also reduce wage pressure.
Additionally, this player has a strong reputation in the Premier League due to his previous experience, making it easier to find interested buyers. His versatility as a center-back and defensive midfielder makes him an attractive profile for several clubs in Europe.
The Impact of This Operation
If this departure is finalized, Barça would be closer to meeting the financial requirements to sign Rashford. The English forward has already expressed his willingness to join Camp Nou, but he has also made it clear that he won't wait indefinitely.
Meanwhile, the player who would leave Barça understands that his role has changed. After his return from injury, he has seen young players like Pau Cubarsí take the spotlight, while Ronald Araújo and Íñigo Martínez have established themselves as starters.
Everything points to the operation being solved in the coming days. On one hand, Rashford remains Barça's main target. On the other, the club doesn't want to miss the opportunity to earn income from a player whose performance and prominence have diminished.
The Imminent Outcome
Finally, the name at the center of this operation is Andreas Christensen. The Danish center-back, who joined Barça from Chelsea as a free agent, could be living his last days at Camp Nou.
At 28 years old, Christensen has offers from the Premier League and other major European leagues. His departure would allow Barça to advance in the acquisition of Rashford, as well as alleviate the economic tensions that have complicated market moves.
Meanwhile, Barça continues to bet on a combination of youth and experience to maintain its competitiveness in all competitions. The possible sale of Christensen represents a necessary sacrifice to build a more solid and balanced team for the future.