Barça has had to readjust its sports planning for the transfer market after Nico Williams's decision to renew with Athletic. The winger was one of the priorities for the sports management, and his profile had been carefully studied to strengthen the left wing. The renewal of the Spanish international not only closed the door to his signing, but has also forced the club to speed up the search for alternatives in the market.
Barça's strategy now revolves around finding a player with similar characteristics to Nico, but who also fits the club's current financial situation. The lack of room in the fair play limits the club's maneuvers, which forces it to fine-tune every operation.
Four forwards for three positions
Currently, Barça only has four forwards in the squad: Ferran Torres, Raphinha, Lamine Yamal, and Robert Lewandowski. Although there are options to cover the three attacking positions, the depth is minimal and any physical setback could leave the team without solutions.
For this reason, the need to add a fifth forward is urgent. The coaching staff's idea is to have a player who can break the balance in one-on-one situations, with the ability to create danger from the left side. Nico's "no," therefore, hasn't closed a door, but has made it necessary to look for alternatives.
Luis Díaz leads the alternatives
In this scenario, Deco is already working with a list of options that could fit into the new plan. The name Deco likes the most is Luis Díaz. The Liverpool player has the exact profile Barça is looking for.
However, his signing wouldn't be easy. Liverpool doesn't intend to give away one of its key players and the operation would only be viable if there are departures. Despite this, Deco keeps Luis as his number one candidate and has started discreet moves to gauge his possible availability this summer.
Marcus Rashford and Rafa Leão, two options
In addition to Luis Díaz, there are two other names on Barça's table. One of them is Marcus Rashford, who keeps offering himself to the Catalan club. The English forward has had an inconsistent season and would welcome a change of scenery.
The other is Rafael Leão, a player especially liked by Joan Laporta. Barça's president wants the Milan striker, whose talent and power fit the type of game-changing footballer he has always wanted. The problem, once again, is financial, since Leão is expensive and Milan doesn't intend to negotiate downwards.