Barcelona are now keen on reinforcing one position after 1:1 return and have two names on the shortlist | OneFootball

FC Barcelona already has one of the most talented young squads in the world, with La Masia, in particular, producing a golden generation for the club. This has ensured that the team remains competitive despite its financial struggles in recent seasons.

However, now that the club has returned to the 1:1 rule, they should have more freedom in negotiating and bringing in new players that could reinforce the squad in areas that La Masia has not yet blessed the club with.

The left wing has been an area of concern for FC Barcelona for quite some time now. Although Raphinha has made that position his own, the Brazilian is also used through the middle and from the right and Hansi Flick will need another dependable winger to call upon.

Now, as per Mundo Deportivo, the club is targeting a player who can provide width, creativity, and goal-scoring ability on the left. Two high-profile names have emerged as top priorities: Luis Díaz of Liverpool and Rafael Leão of AC Milan.

Luis Díaz: A Bold Approach

Luis Díaz, 27, has been a standout performer for Liverpool since his arrival in January 2022. However, despite his strong performances, contract negotiations between the player and the club have stalled. Díaz is reportedly unhappy with the terms of Liverpool’s offer, feeling it does not reflect his value to the team.

Although Liverpool is currently fighting for the Premier League title and leading the UCL League phase table, Barça could test the waters with a serious approach. Convincing Díaz to leave mid-season would be challenging, but the Colombian winger’s dissatisfaction with his contract situation offers a glimmer of hope.

Rafael Leão: A Familiar Target

Another key target is Milan’s Rafael Leão. The 25-year-old Portuguese winger, known for his explosive pace and goal contributions, has long been on Barça’s radar. The Catalan club explored a move for him last summer when Nico Williams decided to stay at Athletic Club. However, financial constraints prevented the deal from materializing.

Now, with Paulo Fonseca’s departure from Milan—a manager with whom Leão reportedly clashed—the situation could shift in Milan’s favor. However, the Portuguese star remains keen on joining a top club, and his agent, Jorge Mendes, has maintained good relations with Barcelona’s management, keeping the door open for a potential move.

Other Names in the Mix

Barça’s scouting department is also monitoring other potential options, including Marcus Rashford of Manchester United and Heung-min Son of Tottenham Hotspur. Rashford, who has fallen out of favor under United’s new coach Rubén Amorim, has been offered to both AC Milan and Barcelona, and if the Englishman moves to Italy, it could open the doors for Leão to move to Spain.

Another name linked to Barça is Tottenham’s Heung-min Son. The Catalan club has reportedly already made contact with the South Korean winger, whose contract is set to expire on June 30, 2025. A deal could be possible, as Tottenham appears hesitant to offer Son a contract extension. At 32 years old, the player is said to be open to closing his decade-long chapter in the Premier League.

If Barcelona is seeking a short-term solution for the position, the South Korean star could be a solid option. However, it is unlikely he would offer the long-term impact of a younger player like Rafael Leão.

It remains to be seen if Barcelona sign a new left-winger this window but the priority has to be to register Dani Olmo and Pau Víctor first. Let’s wait and see how it plays out and we should all have more clarity as the days go on this month.