Marcus Rashford has become Barça's top target for this January market. The interest is real and they're going all in, to the point that negotiations are already underway to discuss his arrival. It's a personal request from Hansi Flick, who sees him as the fourth forward in the team for the remainder of the season. Speaking about his possible arrival, José Álvarez has been clear, indicating that there is a condition that must be met.
In the latest episode of El Chiringuito, José Álvarez was adamant about Marcus Rashford and Barça's interest. For him to arrive and end up wearing the blue and red jersey, a condition must be met: There must be departures. In this regard, there's a departure considered "key" for the operation to succeed: Ansu Fati's.
"For Marcus Rashford to arrive, Ansu Fati's departure is key," stated José Álvarez. Far from stopping there, he pointed out: "Barça wants a loan without a mandatory purchase option."
Ansu Fati Holds the Key for Marcus Rashford
Having returned to the 1:1 rule, Barça has more freedom to add players to its team, but it still needs to make moves. Marcus Rashford can't arrive without departures, as it would again exceed the salary cap. A hypothetical loan or even transfer of Ansu Fati would help fit his salary within the limit, facilitating the operation.
Not only is the future of Ansu Fati crucial. There are other operations in the air that could also be beneficial for registering the Englishman. This includes the possible sale of Mingueza to Aston Villa, from which Barça would receive 10 million euros. Or even a departure of Eric García to Girona, now that it's confirmed Araújo will continue at Camp Nou.
One thing is clear: Marcus Rashford can't arrive without other prior movements. José Álvarez has already warned and been adamant. He highlighted above all the name of Ansu Fati, who already knows he doesn't count for the German coach. He's been left out of the latest call-ups and the message has been clear: If he wants to play, he must leave.
The main problem for Ansu Fati is that he hasn't received firm offers to leave Barça. He has a very high salary, and the teams that want him on loan don't intend to cover it.