Barcelona manager, Hansi Flick, has expressed admiration for Liverpool winger Luis Diaz and Manchester United forward Marcus Rashford, fueling speculation that the Spanish champions could move for either player in the transfer window.
Despite Raphinha’s impressive performances on the left wing this season, capped by a new contract that ties him to the club until 2028, Barça are reportedly in the market for more depth in that position.
Sporting director Deco earlier hinted at his interest in both Premier League stars during a radio interview in Spain, and Flick echoed that sentiment when asked about them during a press conference on Saturday, ahead of the team’s final La Liga clash against Athletic Bilbao.
“Normally I don’t want to speak about players that are not in my team, but of course both of them are fantastic players,” Flick said. “I like them and we will see what happens — but of course they are fantastic players.”
Rashford, who fell out of favor at Manchester United, spent the latter part of the campaign on loan at Aston Villa.
Meanwhile, Colombian international Diaz remains a key figure at Liverpool, but any potential deal would come at a steep price, likely around €80 million ($91 million), a figure that could prove challenging for a Barcelona side still navigating financial constraints.
The club recently faced registration delays with players Dani Olmo and Pau Victor, even needing to resolve the issue in court due to ongoing economic troubles.
On the outgoing front, Ansu Fati has been linked with a move to Monaco in France, having made just six league appearances under Flick this term.
The manager made it clear that any decision about the youngster’s future rests with the player.
“(Ansu leaving) is not my decision, he has a contract and will make the decision,” Flick explained. “When he wants to speak with me he can do that, it’s not a problem, but for me it’s his decision.”
Flick, who extended his contract with the club until 2027 following a triumphant season that saw Barça lift La Liga, the Copa del Rey, and the Spanish Super Cup, is already looking ahead to what could be a more demanding campaign.
“We also want to improve next season, I know it’s not easy, the next season may be tougher than this season,” Flick noted. “But of course we have confidence, we know how good we can play football, but we also have to work on this level… (and the staff) also have to work hard and give the players more options.”
