Barça has a very clear roadmap for this summer: strengthen the attack with a signing that complements the trident and Ferran. The sports management considers it necessary to sign a profile that elevates the squad's level and increases internal competition.
Hansi Flick has conveyed to the management his intention to have a deeper attacking squad. In high-demand matches, Barça believes it needs more options.
Deco also works on significant sales
To make room for new signings, the club will also have to offload several players. Thus, Ansu Fati is one of the most likely departures, and Barça wants to try to bring in some money and free up his spot. But he is not the only one on the way out, as another name that has started to strongly emerge for departure is Ronald Araújo.
The Uruguayan center-back has lost prominence this season, and with a release clause of only 65 million and several offers in the Premier League, Barça doesn't rule out a sale. The decision will not be easy, but in the current context, every move has to be considered both from a sporting and financial perspective.
Marcus Rashford returns to the scene
One of the names that is strongly resurfacing in the offices is Marcus Rashford. The Englishman was already on the blaugrana radar during the winter market, but he finally was loaned to Aston Villa from Manchester United. Now that he returns to Old Trafford, Barça is seriously considering reactivating their interest in him, especially if negotiation possibilities open up.
Marcus Rashford would fit the profile Flick is looking for: fast, versatile, experienced at the highest level, and capable of playing both on the wing and up front. Although his salary is high, it is considered that his signing could raise the attack's level and provide the team with more firepower.
Barça would consider a swap
However, the problems with the salary cap continue to condition the blaugrana planning. Barça, unless it achieves very significant sales, will not be able to undertake major operations without first freeing up salary mass. Therefore, the sports management is considering negotiating a swap with Manchester United, which has Ronald Araújo as a target.
The exchange between Marcus Rashford and Araújo could be a beneficial operation for both clubs. Manchester United would gain a reliable center-back to strengthen their defense, while Barça would acquire a high-level player without needing to make a large outlay.