Barcelona manager Hansi Flick has described Manchester United’s Marcus Rashford and Liverpool’s Luis Diaz as “fantastic players”, as speculation grows about the Spanish champions’ interest in signing either of the Premier League stars.
Though Raphinha has been in fine form this season and recently extended his contract with the Catalan club until 2028, Barcelona are understood to be on the lookout for an additional attacking option on the wing.
Speaking ahead of Barça’s final La Liga fixture against Athletic Bilbao, Flick was asked about the reported interest. “I usually prefer not to comment on players who are not in my squad, but of course, both are fantastic players,” he said during Saturday’s press conference. “I like them and we’ll see what happens – but they are definitely great players.”
Earlier in the week, sporting director Deco also expressed admiration for both Diaz and Rashford during an interview on Spanish radio, further fuelling transfer talk.
Rashford, who struggled for regular playing time at United, spent the second half of the season on loan at Aston Villa. Meanwhile, Diaz has been a regular fixture for Liverpool and would likely command a hefty fee of around €80 million (£68 million) — a significant sum for a club still grappling with financial constraints.
Barcelona have had to navigate ongoing registration issues due to economic restrictions, even resorting to legal action to ensure players like Dani Olmo and Pau Victor were cleared to play this season.
On the potential departure of winger Ansu Fati, who has been linked with a move to Monaco after making just six league appearances under Flick, the coach said the decision rests with the player. “It’s up to him. He’s under contract and will make the decision. If he wants to speak with me, I’m open to that,” Flick commented.
Flick, who recently signed a contract extension keeping him at the helm until 2027, guided Barcelona to a domestic treble this season, winning La Liga, the Copa del Rey, and the Spanish Super Cup. However, the German tactician admitted the road ahead may prove more challenging.
“We want to improve next season, even though it won’t be easy. It could be more difficult than this season,” he said. “But we’re confident. We know how well we can play football, and the coaching staff will keep pushing to provide the players with even more tools to succeed.”
