With Luiz Díaz off the table, Barcelona are poised to ramp up their pursuit of Marcus Rashford | OneFootball

Barcelona are determined to sign a top-class left-sided winger this summer.

Spanish publication Sport recently outlined the La Liga champions’ transfer strategy, stating that the club are keen on Luis Díaz.

If they fail to reach an agreement with Liverpool for the Colombian international, they are expected to turn their attention to Manchester United’s Marcus Rashford.

According to the same source, a meeting between Barcelona sporting director Deco and Rashford’s agent left both sides optimistic about a potential deal.

While Díaz remains the priority, Rashford has emerged as the backup option.

However…

Concerns persist among Old Trafford faithfuls over the deal, as the Catalan giants prefer a loan move for the English forward, while United remain firm on a permanent transfer.

Liverpool shut down Díaz speculation

With attention focused on Barcelona’s pursuit of Díaz or Rashford, the latest update has arrived, bringing positive news for United.

According to The Independent, Liverpool have rejected Barcelona’s approach for their number seven.

The Premier League champions are determined to keep the 28-year-old and have no interest in discussing his departure.

Díaz has been instrumental, scoring 17 league goals to help guide Arne Slot’s side to glory.

Liverpool are eager to extend his contract, even if it means risking losing him for free when his deal expires in 2027.

With the South American winger unavailable, Barcelona are expected to shift their focus to Rashford, who is highly regarded at Camp Nou.

INEOS reportedly believe Rashford will move abroad and are said to be keen on raising £40 million from his sale.

Although Barcelona were prepared to invest heavily in Díaz, Sport suggests Hansi Flick’s side are unlikely to spend such a sum on Rashford.

The Spanish publication claims that if Deco turns his attention to Rashford, he will prioritise securing him on loan.

Barcelona would be willing to pay a substantial loan fee, cover part of his wages, and include an option to buy next year.

Rashford is said to favour the move

The England international is reportedly willing to take a pay cut to help facilitate the transfer.

With Liverpool ruling out a sale for Díaz, Rashford’s pathway to Barcelona remains open, but only if United and the Catalan giants can reach an agreement.

Follow us on Bluesky: @peoplesperson.bsky.social