Barcelona open to parting ways with defender to facilitate Marcus Rashford signing

Barcelona have under two weeks to reinforce their squad before the winter transfer window comes to a halt.

The Blaugrana have identified Manchester United forward Marcus Rashford as a target for this month, with a loan move being explored.

However, unless there is an exit and salary space freed up, the 27-year-old Englishman’s arrival will not be possible.

Ansu Fati seemed to be the Catalans’ sacrificial lamb, with the player being out of favour under Hansi Flick. But his reluctance to leave has slowed things down.

Barcelona open to Eric Garcia exit

As such, SPORT’s Toni Juanmarti reports that Barcelona are now open to parting ways with defender Eric Garcia, amid interest from Girona, in order to facilitate the arrival of Rashford.

The Blaugrana had initially been reluctant to let go of the 24-year-old versatile defender even though he is not a big part of Hansi Flick’s plans.

However, Ronald Araujo’s continuity and the return of Andreas Christensen from injury appear to have changed their stance as far as Garcia’s future is concerned, given that they need to generate ‘Fair Play’ margin to sign new players.

But Barça are playing things cool and are waiting for Girona to make their first move, with everything indicating that it could go down to the final days of the transfer window.

Garcia watching without concern

The report further states that Eric Garcia is watching the situation unfold without any major concern as he would be happy with either option.

For the 24-year-old, Barcelona is his home and he would be more than okay to continue at the club although more playing time would be welcome.

At the same time, the Spanish international would be delighted to return to Girona, where he excelled on loan last season and knows that he will have a prominent role from the get-go.

There are other clubs interested as well, but as things stand, it is expected that the defender will either choose Girona or continue at Barcelona.