Xabi Alonso Gives Barça the Money for Marcus Rashford

The potential move of Marcus Rashford to FC Barcelona, which seemed complicated recently, could soon be back on track, thanks to an unexpected twist involving Bayer Leverkusen. The Blaugrana have found a way to make the deal work, and it might just involve former Real Madrid player, Xabi Alonso.

A few months ago, Barcelona sold Mika Faye to AS Monaco for 12 million euros. This sale, however, included a clause that allows the Catalan club to receive 25% of any future sale of the young center-back. While Faye no longer belongs to Barcelona, the club could still benefit financially from this deal. Bayer Leverkusen, under Xabi Alonso’s leadership, are reportedly preparing a substantial amount of money to bring Faye to Germany, which would trigger the clause and provide Barcelona with the funds needed to complete the Rashford deal.

At just 20 years old, Faye has already shown his potential and is now in a position to move again, with Leverkusen offering him the chance to play in the Bundesliga. The deal could be beneficial for both parties, as Barcelona would receive a financial boost, and Faye would get the opportunity to continue developing under the guidance of Xabi Alonso. The prospect of this deal materializing is exciting for Barcelona, especially given that other potential player sales, such as those involving Óscar Mingueza and Francisco Trincão, have fallen through.

With the winter transfer window closing on February 3, time is running out for Barcelona to secure Rashford’s signature. Hansi Flick, who is keen on strengthening his squad, sees Rashford as the perfect competition for Raphinha and Ansu Fati. Flick wants to finish the season with a balanced rotation, ensuring that all three wingers get sufficient playing time. Deco, Barcelona’s sporting director, shares Flick’s enthusiasm, emphasizing that Rashford’s skill set is a good match for Barcelona’s attacking style, particularly due to his speed and ball control, qualities that resemble those of young talent Lamine Yamal.

However, Rashford has made it clear that he wants to be guaranteed playing time if he makes the move to Barcelona. He’s seen firsthand what happened with Dani Olmo, who was left in limbo due to bureaucratic issues at the club. Rashford doesn’t want to risk a similar situation. He wants assurance that he will be integrated into the team and will have an important role to play, rather than sitting on the bench. Deco has promised to work on this and has asked Rashford for some patience, though the English forward is not willing to wait too long. He has made it clear that he expects an answer by next Monday, a week before the transfer window closes, so that he can make alternative plans if necessary.

This transfer saga has garnered significant attention, as Barcelona seeks to bolster their attacking options. With Rashford’s potential move to the club, they would add another dynamic forward to their ranks, giving them even more attacking firepower alongside the likes of Robert Lewandowski, Ansu Fati, and Raphinha. Barcelona’s pursuit of Rashford highlights their ambition to remain competitive in both La Liga and European competition.

In the meantime, Bayer Leverkusen’s interest in Mika Faye could prove to be the key that unlocks Barcelona’s ability to complete this deal. The funds from Faye’s potential sale could be the catalyst for the Rashford signing, and Barcelona is eager to see the transaction unfold before the deadline.

As the transfer window approaches its final days, all eyes will be on Barcelona’s next move. Will they manage to secure Marcus Rashford, or will the club’s financial limitations prevent them from completing the deal? The coming days will be crucial in determining the future of the English international and Barcelona’s ambitions for the remainder of the season.

The outcome of this transfer could shape the course of Barcelona’s campaign, and fans will be eagerly waiting to see if their club can pull off yet another high-profile signing in the winter window.