Rashford wants Barcelona, but Barça have eyes on Lamine Yamal’s best friend | OneFootball

Marcus Rashford has reportedly made it clear he wants to join Barcelona. According to journalist Ben Jacobs, the Manchester United forward is pushing hard for a move to the Catalan giants.

However, his hopes may already be fading, as Barcelona have firmly set their sights on signing Athletic Club’s Nico Williams.

The 27-year-old Englishman is said to be available for around £40 million. However, what is troubling is that the Premier League team is not in favour of any loan deal.

And with Barcelona going for Nico, who is set to cost above €60 million, paying that much for Rashford would make no sense for Barcelona.

It is to be noted that in recent days, Rashford has gone as far as praising Lamine Yamal, in what some believe is a clear attempt to flatter the club and edge closer to his dream move.

Barcelona’s plans don’t include Rashford

Barcelona have their eyes set on Nico Williams. (Photo by Denis Doyle/Getty Images)

Despite the interest and outreach from Rashford’s camp, Barcelona are not currently considering the Manchester United star as a priority target.

The club are fully focused on finalising the signing of Nico, a player they view as the perfect addition to their squad.

As previously reported, Barça plan to activate Nico’s €58 million release clause on July 1 or 2, allowing them to book the transfer into the 2025/26 financial year.

Once completed, the Spain international will become Hansi Flick’s first-choice option on the left wing, a position Rashford also favours.

Meanwhile, it is to be noted that Rashford has expressed his willingness to adapt his role and play as a striker if it increases his chances of joining Barcelona.

But that switch may not help his cause either, as Barça currently are not in the market for a traditional number 9 and have no immediate plans to recruit one this summer. Instead, they are focused on strengthening wide positions and balancing the wage bill.