Barcelona ‘Considering’ Marcus Rashford Alternative Chased By Chelsea, Liverpool

Reports from Spain suggest that Barcelona are actively exploring alternatives to Marcus Rashford amid ongoing uncertainty over the Manchester United forward’s future. According to updated transfer data from reputable outlets such as Mundo Deportivo and The Athletic, Rashford remains admired by Barça’s recruitment team, but the financial reality of the club’s situation means that a direct move is considered “highly unlikely.” As a result, Barcelona are reportedly considering another versatile attacking option — a player also being monitored by Chelsea and Liverpool — as part of their 2026 transfer strategy.

The player in question, according to multiple European sources, is Nico Williams of Athletic Club Bilbao, one of La Liga’s most promising forwards. Williams has emerged as one of Spain’s breakout stars over the last two seasons, combining blistering pace, technical flair, and tactical discipline. His performances for club and country have not gone unnoticed, making him one of the most coveted young talents in Europe.

Barcelona’s financial constraints shape transfer planning

Despite the strong desire to add top-tier attacking talent, Barcelona’s financial situation continues to dictate their recruitment strategy. Following years of high spending and subsequent economic controls enforced by La Liga, the club is operating under strict salary caps. According to official figures released by the league, Barça’s spending limit for the 2025–26 season sits at €304 million, nearly half of what Real Madrid can allocate.

These constraints make the pursuit of Rashford — who earns over £300,000 per week at Manchester United — virtually impossible unless significant player sales occur. That reality has forced sporting director Deco and manager Xavi Hernández (whose contract extension is still under negotiation) to identify younger, more affordable targets capable of contributing immediately and growing in value over time.

Nico Williams: the emerging Spanish star

Nico Williams, 23, has become a cornerstone for both Athletic Club and the Spanish national team. Over the 2024–25 campaign, he registered 9 goals and 12 assists across all competitions, showcasing a combination of creativity and explosiveness that few wingers in La Liga can match. Data from Opta shows that Williams ranks among the top five in the league for successful dribbles per 90 minutes (4.8) and progressive carries — metrics that reflect his ability to destabilize defensive lines.

His consistent performances during Euro 2024 further elevated his profile. Spain’s manager Luis de la Fuente has openly praised the winger’s maturity and adaptability: “Nico is fearless. He gives us width, speed, and unpredictability — qualities every top team needs.”

Why Barcelona view Williams as the ideal fit

In tactical terms, Xavi’s Barcelona have often struggled with natural width. Since the departure of Ousmane Dembélé to PSG, much of the attacking creativity has relied on Lamine Yamal, the teenage prodigy, and Raphinha, whose inconsistency has frustrated fans and coaches alike. Williams’ arrival would offer balance — a left-sided winger who thrives in one-on-one situations, capable of stretching compact defenses.

His work rate and defensive contribution also align with Xavi’s pressing philosophy. In the 2024–25 La Liga season, Williams averaged 1.7 tackles per match and was among the top three forwards in defensive recoveries in the final third, according to FBref data. Such numbers make him a natural fit for Barça’s high-intensity system.

Competition from Premier League clubs

However, Barcelona are not alone in their pursuit. Chelsea and Liverpool have both identified Nico Williams as a priority target for the upcoming transfer window. Chelsea’s recruitment chief Joe Shields has reportedly held informal talks with the player’s representatives, while Liverpool’s scouting department — now led by Richard Hughes — views him as a long-term successor to Mohamed Salah, whose future at Anfield remains uncertain beyond 2025.

According to The Guardian, Williams’ release clause is set at €58 million, a figure that puts him within reach for Premier League clubs but still challenging for Barcelona given their financial limits. Nonetheless, Barcelona hope that their project, the lure of playing alongside Pedri, Gavi, and Lamine Yamal, and the chance to remain in Spain could tip the scales in their favor.

The Rashford question

Marcus Rashford, meanwhile, faces a crossroads in his career. After a disappointing 2024–25 campaign at Manchester United, the 27-year-old has endured criticism from fans and media over his form and commitment. Despite flashes of brilliance, he managed just 10 goals in 35 appearances, far below his career-best numbers from 2022–23.

United’s new management under Sir Jim Ratcliffe and football director Dan Ashworth is evaluating all options, including the potential sale of high-earning players. However, sources close to Rashford maintain that he remains focused on turning his form around at Old Trafford. Barcelona’s interest, while genuine, has been described as “exploratory” — part of a broader search for versatile forwards rather than an immediate pursuit.

Financial logic behind Barcelona’s alternative strategy

Barcelona’s shift toward players like Nico Williams fits a broader financial strategy. According to Transfermarkt and club insiders, the Catalans have prioritized targets aged 25 or younger with potential resale value and manageable wage structures. This approach follows recommendations from La Liga’s financial oversight committee, which continues to monitor Barcelona’s spending closely.

In practical terms, this means avoiding mega-deals that could jeopardize long-term stability. The club’s recent revenue boost from the Spotify partnership and the reopening of Camp Nou in late 2025 will provide additional flexibility, but significant signings remain contingent on outgoings such as Raphinha, Ferran Torres, or even Frenkie de Jong if the right offer arrives.

The role of Xavi and Deco in recruitment

Manager Xavi Hernández and sporting director Deco have worked in tandem to redefine Barcelona’s scouting network. The club has invested in data-driven analytics, utilizing performance metrics from platforms like Wyscout and StatsBomb to identify undervalued players. Williams’ statistical profile — high involvement, strong defensive metrics, and age curve — makes him particularly appealing under this model.

Deco has also emphasized the importance of Spanish and La Liga-based talent, as they typically adapt faster to the club’s playing style and regulatory environment. Sources close to the negotiation suggest that initial contact between Barcelona and Williams’ representatives has already taken place, though no formal offer has been made.

Premier League threat: Chelsea and Liverpool’s advantages

For Chelsea, Williams represents part of their plan to rejuvenate the squad with young, dynamic attackers. Manager Enzo Maresca reportedly values his ability to operate on both flanks. The Blues are also in a stronger financial position to trigger the release clause without needing to offload players.

Liverpool, under Arne Slot, are monitoring the situation closely as they prepare for a potential rebuild. With Salah approaching the final year of his contract, the club views Williams as an ideal long-term replacement. Slot’s high-pressing, possession-based style aligns well with the winger’s attributes — pace, intelligence, and relentless work ethic.

Both English clubs can offer higher wages than Barcelona, but the allure of playing for the Catalan giants, combined with the cultural and linguistic familiarity, could still make Barça a compelling destination.

Data comparison: Rashford vs. Williams

Player	Goals (2024–25)	Assists	Dribbles/90	Key Passes/90	Pressing Actions/90	Age
Marcus Rashford	10	5	3.1	1.9	9.5	27
Nico Williams	9	12	4.8	2.6	11.3	23

The data illustrates why Williams has become a more attractive proposition. While Rashford remains a high-profile name, his output and pressing intensity have declined, whereas Williams’ trajectory points upward.

What’s next for Barcelona

According to Relevo, Barcelona’s transfer committee will finalize its summer shortlist by March 2026, with Williams among the top three targets. Other names mentioned include João Félix (currently on loan from Atlético Madrid) and Savinho, the Brazilian winger thriving at Girona. However, the final decision will depend on the outcome of ongoing financial assessments and La Liga’s salary registration rules.

Should Williams remain unattainable, Barcelona may pivot toward even younger talents, including Ilias Akhomach (Leeds United) and Ansu Fati, whose future at Brighton remains uncertain after a mixed loan spell.

The wider market context

The competition for elite wingers reflects a broader trend in European football. With fewer traditional strikers available, clubs are investing in wide players who can both score and create. Data from CIES Football Observatory shows that wide forwards now account for 42% of total transfer spending among Europe’s top five leagues — a 15% increase over the past five years.

This shift aligns with the tactical evolution toward inverted wingers and dynamic transitions. Barcelona’s focus on Williams, therefore, is not just about replacing Dembélé or missing out on Rashford — it’s about staying competitive in a market that increasingly values creativity and verticality.

FAQ – Frequently Asked Questions

1. Is Barcelona still interested in Marcus Rashford?
Yes, but only at a reduced cost or through a loan deal — a permanent move is considered unlikely due to salary restrictions.

2. Who is the alternative target?
Barcelona are seriously considering Nico Williams from Athletic Club as their top alternative.

3. Are Chelsea and Liverpool also pursuing Williams?
Yes, both Premier League clubs are actively monitoring his situation and have the finances to pay his release clause.

4. What is Williams’ current release clause?
It stands at approximately €58 million.

5. Why is Williams a better fit than Rashford?
Williams is younger, more affordable, and statistically more consistent, making him a sustainable long-term investment.

6. How does Barcelona plan to fund new signings?
Through player sales, sponsorship deals, and the Camp Nou redevelopment revenue.

7. When will a decision be made?
Barcelona expect to finalize their summer transfer shortlist by March 2026.

8. How has Williams performed statistically?
He ranks among La Liga’s top five wingers for dribbles, assists, and defensive recoveries.

9. What is Rashford’s current situation at Manchester United?
He remains under contract until 2028 but faces internal review due to form and salary concerns.

10. Could Williams move to the Premier League instead?
Yes — if Barcelona cannot act quickly, Chelsea or Liverpool are prepared to meet his release clause.

Conclusion

Barcelona’s pursuit of a Marcus Rashford alternative underscores both ambition and realism. While Rashford’s talent is undeniable, the club’s economic situation demands smarter, data-informed recruitment. Nico Williams fits that vision — dynamic, cost-effective, and perfectly aligned with the tactical evolution under Xavi.

Whether or not the Catalan giants can outmaneuver the financial might of Premier League clubs remains to be seen. But one thing is clear: Barcelona’s scouting strategy has entered a new era — one where data, youth, and sustainability take precedence over star names.