FC Barcelona's sports management has begun to outline its roadmap for the next transfer market, where one of the priorities remains strengthening the wings. Although Nico Williams was for a long time the board's great desire, today his name no longer figures in the club's plans. The decision was made months ago, when Laporta and Deco understood that the opportunity to bring the Athletic player had been definitively lost.
Instead, Barça opted for another type of footballer and focused on securing the arrival of Dani Olmo, an operation that practically closed the door to Nico. "He was a candidate, but we decided on Olmo", the president himself acknowledged in a recent interview. Thus, the Catalan club puts an end to a story that dragged on for several markets and now leaves room for new alternatives on the left wing.
Barça's new targets
With Nico's file closed, Deco and the sports management have turned toward two names that excite both in sports and media terms: Marcus Rashford and Luis Díaz. Both wingers fit the profile Barça is looking for: dribbling, goals, experience at the elite level, and a great ability to compete with figures like Lamine Yamal and Raphinha. In the case of the Englishman, his contractual situation opens up the possibility of a loan with a purchase option, a formula that the club sees favorably.
Rashford, currently on loan to Aston Villa, would even be willing to lower his salary to wear the blaugrana jersey. His desire for a change of scenery, combined with his offensive talent and global image, make him an attractive signing for Laporta. However, the high cost of the operation and his annual salary of 14 million remain considerable obstacles.
The most viable option
On the other hand, Deco's favorite remains Luis Díaz: the Colombian winger is going through a moment of uncertainty at Liverpool and could leave if an adequate offer arrives. His style perfectly fits what Barça is looking for on their left wing and he can make a difference in the final meters. Additionally, his price would be more accessible than other market options.
The club believes that, if space is freed up in the wage bill, Luis Díaz could become the first major signing of the summer. Although there is still no formal offer from Barça, conversations with his entourage have already begun, and the Colombian would view a change of scenery favorably. Meanwhile, the club continues to fine-tune its planning with the certainty that Nico Williams is already part of the past.