Wednesday, January 8, 2025

How Man Utd star’s Italy move could open doors for Barcelona to land left wing target

Must read

How Man Utd star’s Italy move could open doors for Barcelona to land left wing target

Barcelona may soon find themselves with an unexpected opportunity in the transfer market due to developments surrounding Marcus Rashford’s potential move from Manchester United to AC Milan.

In fact, according to Mundo Deportivo, this situation could indirectly help the Catalan club secure one of their key targets for the winter window.

Currently, Barcelona are working within the constraints of La Liga’s financial rules, operating under the 1:1 regulation. However, club president Joan Laporta is determined to strengthen the squad.

His approach isn’t driven by personal desires but by strategic discussions with the sporting and technical departments, including input from Deco and Hansi Flick.

The consensus is clear: the team requires reinforcements to remain competitive this season.

One area that remains a priority for Barcelona is the left wing. This position was a focus during the summer transfer window, but the club was unable to address it due to financial limitations.

Barcelona have identified their targets

Now, with another opportunity arising, two names have emerged as prime candidates—Luis Diaz from Liverpool and Rafael Leao from AC Milan.

Rafael Leao is wanted by Barcelona. (Photo by Angel Martinez/Getty Images)Rafael Leao is wanted by Barcelona. (Photo by Angel Martinez/Getty Images)

Rafael Leao is wanted by Barcelona. (Photo by Angel Martinez/Getty Images)

Both players bring valuable experience and skill to the table but have faced varying challenges with their current clubs and between the two,  Leao’s situation at Milan is more complicated.

The Portuguese forward had a strained relationship with former Milan coach Paulo Fonseca, and although Fonseca’s departure may provide him with some relief, his desire to join a bigger club remains unchanged.

Rashford is the key

Interestingly, AC Milan’s interest in Rashford could create an opening for Leao’s departure.

Milan are reportedly keen on the English winger, who is currently struggling for form and is not part of new Manchester United manager Ruben Amorim’s plans.

Rashford’s potential arrival at San Siro could pave the way for Barcelona to pursue Leao, should Milan decide to offload the 25-year-old to accommodate the Englishman.

With Rashford contracted to Manchester United until 2028, his move could trigger a chain reaction in the market.

Barcelona’s chances of signing Leao or even exploring other options on the left wing may improve significantly, depending on how these developments unfold in the coming months.

Latest article