Manchester United has set a formidable price tag on Marcus Rashford, posing a significant challenge for Barcelona’s pursuit of the versatile forward.
Barcelona are keen to enhance their attacking arsenal this summer, and Flick sees adding a left-footed winger as essential to supporting Lamine Yamal and Raphinha.
The Catalan club is searching for a flexible frontman, with Luis Diaz of Liverpool and Marcus Rashford of Manchester United emerging as prime targets.
Rashford has caught the eye of Sporting Director Deco for his versatility and potential availability.
According to Diario Sport, Manchester United has placed a firm asking price of €40 million on the 26-year-old England international.
While Barca expressed interest in moving for Rashford, United will not consider dealing any less than €40 million.
It has been reported that meetings between agents and Barcelona have taken place to look at ideas around tackling the financial structure, including a loan with an option to buy or obligation to buy, or a reduced buyout price, as low as €5-10 million.
A firm stance on a €40 million asking price has complicated negotiations for Rashford and added pressure as he works through Financial Fair Play.
Rashford’s eagerness to come to Barcelona adds another wrinkle to the story. It’s reported that he is willing to take a pay-cut from his €10 million net per year salary to fit into the club’s wage structure, especially given Barcelona’s financial woes.
As a player who can play across the front line, he could potentially fit into Flick’s system, and he offers competition and an alternative to the existing wingers.
For now, any potential transfer hinges on Barcelona renegotiating its financial position.
In the short term, until their Fair Play margins allow for such reimbursement, the move for Rashford could be on hold.
If Barcelona manage to secure their man or otherwise, move onto their next targets, like Diaz, will be watched closely as we near the summer window.
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