Barcelona is still searching for a reliable left winger. Hansi Flick, the club's new coach, is clear about it: he needs a game-changing footballer on the wing to complete his project. However, the transfer market is becoming more complicated than desired.
Nico Williams, the dream that vanished
Everything pointed to Nico Williams wearing the blaugrana jersey. He fit in every way: young, electric, with dribbling skills, and used to playing on big stages. He even shared the field with several Barça footballers at the Euros, generating even more excitement.
But no, despite the club's interest and the good initial feelings, the deal didn't go through. The figures of his release clause (€58 million) and his salary demands have ended up pushing him away from Camp Nou. His contract renewal with Athletic and his desire to stay in Bilbao have finally closed the door, the first serious setback for Flick.
Rashford, another high-profile rejection
Soon after, Marcus Rashford's name came up. His situation at Manchester United is unstable, and from England there were reports of a possible change of scenery. Barça saw it as an opportunity, but Rashford doesn't want to leave Old Trafford and, if he does, it won't be to Camp Nou.
Moreover, his price, far above what the Catalan club can pay, was another impossible barrier to overcome. Another option falls through. That's two now.
Now, Rafael Leao's turn
When everything seemed to indicate that Barça could go after Rafael Leao, the answer was the same: no. The Portuguese winger was one of the club's great hopes, but Massimiliano Allegri's latest words have dashed any attempt.
"I'm glad that Leao also stayed; he's going to have a great season," said AC Milan's new coach. With a contract until 2028 and a market value of €70 million, Leao will remain one of the pillars of the Rossoneri side. Allegri is counting on him and the player wants to stay.
In short, there's no deal. Not with Barça nor with Bayern, which also had him on its radar.
Flick runs out of options
The situation is clear: the main alternatives to strengthen the left wing have said no, Nico, Rashford, and Leao. One by one, the names are falling, and time is passing. Hansi Flick needs reinforcements, but the signings aren't arriving.
The market is still open, yes. Reality hits: it's becoming difficult for Barça to sign what it needs. Flick, who arrived with excitement and ambition, is starting to see his plans waver.
There's a long way to go before the market closes. With each rejection, the margin for error shrinks. Barça is still without its desired winger.