Barcelona are reconsidering their transfer strategy this summer after being rejected by Nico Williams. The fact that Williams will stay at Athletic Club creates ripple effects that reach all the way to Germany.
After Williams is no longer a target, Barcelona will focus on two options. But Barcelona wasn’t the only club Williams turned down – Bayern Munich actually offered more money than both the Catalan and Athletic. Christian Falk has told Bayern Insider that the Bavarian giants will now meet to discuss whether Williams’ new buyout clause is too high. Still, it will be a big surprise if Williams, after all the drama, accepts a change of club.
Read: Jonathan David has landed for signing!
Uncertainty about Luis Díaz
Falk has also reported that Bayern Munich have had concrete discussions with Luis Díaz’s representatives, after Liverpool set a price of between €80-85 million for him. Sports director Max Eberl has even discussed numbers with Díaz and his team. Díaz is also Barcelona’s top priority again, as he was at the start of the summer, but his situation is now uncertain following the tragic passing of teammate Diogo Jota. It will probably take time for Díaz or Liverpool to address the issue of a transfer, as they mourn the loss.
Bayern consider Rashford as an option
The problem for Barcelona is that Bayern’s other option is Manchester United’s Marcus Rashford. The England international has informed United that he wants to leave the club and will be given an extended holiday to decide his future.
According to Falk, Rashford is Bayern’s backup plan if they don’t get Díaz, and he fits what they are looking for. In the past, he was considered too expensive, but now they see him as an opportunity in the market.
Rashford will probably make the decision
United prefer to raise as much as possible of the proposed €45 million for the 27-year-old. If Bayern are interested, they could possibly make a deal. Barcelona are more likely to seek a loan with an option to buy, but then they are dependent on Rashford insisting on a move to Catalonia – as United will only accept it as a last resort.
This summer’s transfer saga continues to develop, with Bayern Munich and Barcelona as the big players. While Barcelona will need to find new goalkeepers following Williams’ rejection, Bayern have several options to consider – including Rashford, who could now become a key player in both clubs’ plans.
Read on English clubs: The sale of Anthony Elanga brings millions to Manchester United
