Hours go by, and when Barça seemed to have practically given up on Marcus Rashford, a surprise opportunity has appeared. Journalist Fabrizio Romano revealed it, indicating that Pep Guardiola is interested in signing Nico González, a Barça youth academy player who is currently at Porto. In 2023, the Catalans sold him for 8.5 million euros (9.3 million dollars), reserving 40% of his future sale.
This operation can be very economically beneficial two years later, with Manchester City having started negotiations with Nico González. In this regard, Porto is clear: it doesn't intend to lower its price and refers to his release clause. We are talking about a price of 60 million euros (65.8 million dollars) that Pep Guardiola would be willing to pay to strengthen his midfield.
Considering that Barça will receive 40% of any operation that Porto closes for Nico González, we would be talking about great news. If the payment of his clause, valued at 60 million, is executed, practically half would be for the team presided over by Laporta. In total, up to 24 million euros (26.3 million dollars) could be received without the need to lift a finger, positively impacting Fair Play.
Being back in the 1:1 rule, Barça could spend these 24 million euros (26.3 million dollars) in full, allowing for a significant operation like that of Marcus Rashford.
Marcus Rashford, closer to Barça
Marcus Rashford hasn't moved and still has Barça as his priority, although in recent hours there has been a certain distancing. Before learning the news about Nico González, the English forward's entourage was informed by the club that his arrival is very complicated, something that would have forced him to explore alternatives. One is Aston Villa, with a lot of money available after the sale of Jhon Durán to Saudi Arabia.
Marcus Rashford can't wait much longer, with the market ending on February 3rd. Everything is now in the hands of Pep Guardiola... who should quickly pay Nico González's clause so that Barça can afford this move.
The calculations at Barça are clear. For Marcus Rashford, only a loan until the end of the season is intended, paying his remaining salary and without a purchase option. The impact on Fair Play would be about 6 or 7 million euros (6.6 or 7.7 million dollars), which could be paid if the Nico González's operation succeeds...