The priorities at Barça are clear and Deco isn't wasting any time. Hansi Flick has requested an attacking reinforcement who can alternate with Lamine Yamal and Raphinha. He knows the season will be long and he'll need more options on the wings if he wants to compete for everything.
Nico Williams was the main target: the favorite due to his talent, age, and current performance. Negotiations were going well, but in the end, everything fell apart. The Spanish international rejected the Barça proposal when it seemed the deal was done.
Barça and Deco keep looking for a winger after Nico Williams's "no"
After Nico's rejection, Deco has focused on an alternative that had been on his radar for some time: Luis Díaz. The Liverpool Colombian is highly regarded for his dribbling ability, but financial difficulties and pressure from Bayern Munich have definitely pushed him away. Thus, his signing has been ruled out.
With that option closed, Joan Laporta has proposed another choice that excites the board: Rafael Leao. The Milan winger fits perfectly with the desired profile, but his price is very high and the Italian club doesn't want to sell. Another door closes.
The market doesn't offer many opportunities, so Deco needs to act quickly. Flick wants to finalize his squad as soon as possible and has requested a solution. That's why, in recent hours, an unexpected alternative has emerged that everyone likes.
Marcus Rashford emerges as a real option to strengthen Barça's attack
Marcus Rashford has offered himself to Barça and Deco isn't ruling him out. The English forward hasn't shown up for Manchester United training and his departure seems imminent. He isn't in Rúben Amorim's plans and has already been separated from the group.
The relationship between Marcus Rashford and his circle at Old Trafford is completely broken. The footballer wants a change of scenery as soon as possible and Barça appears as one of his favorite destinations. His admiration for FC Barcelona is well known, as is his respect for players like Lamine Yamal.
He has never hidden his desire to wear the Barça jersey one day. Now, with his contract situation hanging in the air, the moment may have arrived. Deco is analyzing the operation very carefully.
Deco seriously considers signing Marcus Rashford: Flick gives the green light to the reinforcement
Flick has given his approval and hopes the move will be finalized soon. Marcus Rashford can play on both wings and also as a central attacking reference. His versatility, experience, and quality make him a very interesting option.
Barça is considering a loan with a purchase option, a formula it has already used successfully on other occasions. Marcus Rashford would agree to lower his salary to facilitate his arrival. United, under pressure from the situation, wouldn't put up too many obstacles.
Everything suggests that, unless there are negative developments, Deco will try to finalize his signing before another big club gets ahead. Time is of the essence and Barça needs to strengthen now.