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As Barcelona continue to shape their squad for the future, the left-wing position remains a crucial area of focus.
The club has been linked with a range of potential targets, each bringing a unique set of skills, challenges, and considerations. And as the transfer window nears conclusion, here we take a look at those linked with the team with an analysis of their potential fit.
Nico Williams – The One That Got Away?
Topping the list is Nico Williams, a player who has consistently impressed with his speed, creativity, and ability to take on defenders.
He would be an ideal addition to Barcelona’s attacking arsenal, offering versatility and a direct approach that could be a game-changer in tight matches.
However, despite the admiration from Barcelona’s management and constant chasing, the likelihood of Nico joining the Catalan giants remains slim.
Over the past few weeks, it has emerged that he is expected to stay at Athletic Club, where he has established himself as a key player.
The Basque club is notorious for its reluctance to sell, especially to rival clubs, and the player himself has shown no strong inclination to leave.
It is a scenario where Barcelona may have to watch from afar as Nico continues to develop into one of La Liga’s standout performers.
Rafael Leao – The Pricey Prodigy
Rafael Leao would be an expensive acquisition for Barcelona. (Photo by SAMUEL CORUM/AFP via Getty Images)
Rafael Leao is undoubtedly one of the most exciting wingers in Europe. His combination of pace, strength, and technical ability makes him a nightmare for defenders.
At AC Milan, he has grown into a top-tier player, and his performances have not gone unnoticed by Barcelona. However, the major stumbling block is the financial aspect.
Leao’s price tag is exorbitant, with Milan unlikely to entertain any offers below €100 million.
Barcelona’s current financial situation makes such a transfer highly improbable and while the player’s talent is undeniable, the cost might be too steep for a club that is still navigating financial constraints.
Unless there is a significant windfall, Leao may remain out of reach.
Federico Chiesa – The Affordable Risk
Federico Chiesa’s injury record is troubling. (Photo by Valerio Pennicino/Getty Images)
Federico Chiesa represents a more financially viable option for Barcelona. The Juventus winger is a dynamic player with a proven track record at both club and international levels.
His ability to play on either wing, combined with his knack for scoring important goals, makes him an attractive option.
However, Chiesa’s injury history is a concern. His recent struggles to stay fit could deter Barcelona from making a serious move. To put it in perspective, he missed a total of 11 games last season through five different injuries.
In the 2022/23 season, he missed 16 games and the 2021/22 season was entirely lost as he was out for more than 300 days, missing 57 matches.
But if Barcelona are willing to take a calculated risk, Chiesa could provide excellent value for money, offering a blend of experience and skill that could complement the squad well.
Marcus Rashford – The Inconsistent Enigma
Marcus Rashford’s inconsistency will harm Barcelona. (Photo by JUSTIN TALLIS/AFP via Getty Images)
Marcus Rashford is a name that has been recently linked with Barcelona. The Manchester United forward has the potential to be a world-class player, and his versatility across the front line makes him a valuable asset.
Yet, his inconsistency is a major red flag. His form fluctuates significantly, and he has yet to demonstrate the level of consistency required to be a regular starter for a club like Barcelona.
The major example is the fact that he has scored just eight goals in over 40 matches. Additionally, his salary demands would be astronomical, potentially disrupting the club’s wage structure.
While Rashford could thrive at Barcelona, the risks may outweigh the rewards.
Kingsley Coman – Flick’s Favourite
Kingsley Coman has previously worked under Hansi Flick. (Photo by Warren Little/Getty Images)
Last on the list is Kingsley Coman, a player well-known to Barcelona’s current head coach, Hansi Flick. Coman has been a key figure at Bayern Munich, known for his speed, dribbling, and ability to score in big matches.
Flick’s familiarity with Coman could be a significant advantage, as the coach knows how to get the best out of him.
However, like Chiesa, Coman is injury-prone, having missed a significant number of games over the past few seasons. His salary is also a concern, as it would require Barcelona to stretch their budget to accommodate him.
While Coman could potentially bring a lot to the team, his injury history and wage demands make him a less attractive option.
Analysis: The Case for Standing Pat
Barcelona can explore internal options for the left-wing position. (Photo by Aitor Alcalde/Getty Images)
Given the challenges associated with signing a new left-winger, Barcelona may be better off exploring internal solutions. Ansu Fati, despite his own injury issues, remains a top talent who could reclaim his position if he returns to full fitness.
Furthermore, Raphinha is only waiting for an opportunity. Dani Olmo, on the other hand, could also provide versatility across the front line, while Pedri could be deployed in a more advanced role in a 4-2-3-1 formation.
Moreover, La Masia continues to produce talented wingers, with Noah Darvich emerging as a potential future star. Ferran Torres, though not a fan favourite, still has the potential to contribute if given the chance.
In a season where Barcelona may need to prioritise financial prudence, these internal options could prove more beneficial than splashing out on a high-profile signing.
