Barcelona's Summer Transfer Strategy Takes Shape
Barcelona are already laying the groundwork for a significant summer transfer window, with manager Hansi Flick determined to reinforce his squad in key areas. The Catalan club are reportedly keen on signing Inter Milan's star defender Alessandro Bastoni, while also considering making Marcus Rashford's loan move from Manchester United a permanent transfer.
Defensive Reinforcement a Priority
Despite sitting second in La Liga and having secured automatic progression to the Champions League last 16, Barcelona's recent 4-0 defeat to Atletico Madrid in the Copa del Rey semi-final first leg exposed defensive vulnerabilities. Flick is therefore prioritising the acquisition of a world-class central defender this summer.
Alessandro Bastoni has emerged as a primary target, with the 26-year-old Italian international currently in his peak years. According to reports from Calciomercato, Barcelona are prepared to rival Arsenal for his signature, despite Inter Milan's reluctance to sell a player who has been crucial for both club and country since joining in 2017.
Barcelona have already held preliminary talks with Bastoni's representatives and will maintain their interest as the transfer window approaches. The defender's contract with Inter has two years remaining, making this a potentially complex negotiation for the Spanish giants.
Rashford's Future in Barcelona's Hands
In attack, Barcelona face what could be one of their most straightforward decisions of the summer. Marcus Rashford, who is spending the 2025/26 season on loan from Manchester United, has made it clear he wants to secure a permanent move to Camp Nou.
The 28-year-old English forward has been in impressive form, contributing 10 goals and 13 assists in 34 appearances across all competitions. Barcelona hold an option to sign him for approximately £26 million and are reportedly inclined to exercise this clause.
"For sure," Rashford told ESPN in October when asked about his desire to stay in Spain. "I'm enjoying this football club and I think for anybody who loves football, Barcelona is one of the key clubs in the history of the game. For a player it is an honour."
Potential Complications and Managerial Influence
However, Rashford's future could still be influenced by developments at his parent club. Michael Carrick's appointment as Manchester United manager, replacing Ruben Amorim who had frozen Rashford out, introduces uncertainty. Carrick has a history of reintegrating marginalised players and might attempt to convince the academy graduate to return to Old Trafford if he secures the permanent managerial position.
Ultimately, the decision rests with Barcelona's hierarchy. When questioned about signing Rashford permanently last month, Flick stated: "I always talk with Deco about what we can do. I'm happy with Rashford, but there are still a lot of months left until the season ends. I really appreciate the work he's doing."
Barcelona's transfer plans extend beyond these two targets, with the club also linked to Borussia Dortmund's Nico Schlotterbeck and Sporting Lisbon's Goncalo Inacio as alternative defensive options. As the summer approaches, sporting director Deco will work closely with Flick to execute a transfer strategy aimed at addressing the squad's weaknesses while capitalising on opportunities like Rashford's affordable buy option.
