Barcelona Eyes Three Dynamic Wingers as Rashford and Diaz Alternatives Heat Up Transfer Market
Barcelona continue their search for an additional attacking player before the 2025–26 campaign begins, though this pursuit has become far more challenging than initially anticipated.
The left wing position has remained a priority for Barcelona throughout the summer transfer window. Nico Williams emerged as their primary target, with the club coming close to securing the Spanish international's signature, but Barcelona's ongoing financial constraints ultimately derailed the deal.
Luis Díaz and Marcus Rashford have emerged as Barcelona's preferred alternatives. However, the Catalan club's economic difficulties continue to pose obstacles for potential moves involving either Premier League star.
Should Barcelona's financial circumstances fail to improve substantially in the upcoming weeks, the club may need to abandon their pursuit of a high-profile winger and instead focus on a more budget-friendly option who could serve as squad depth for next season.
Considering this scenario, here are three more achievable targets Barcelona should evaluate to strengthen Hansi Flick's attacking options.
3. Antonio Nusa
Among RB Leipzig's collection of talented young prospects, 20-year-old Antonio Nusa stands out as potentially the most captivating talent.
The Norwegian international operates as a left winger who matches exactly what Barcelona seek. While still developing his game, Nusa possesses notable pace and dribbling skills, with his adaptability being particularly attractive as he can function effectively on both flanks and through the middle.
Nusa featured in 40 matches for RB Leipzig during the previous campaign, contributing five goals and eight assists until a knee problem in February disrupted his season's conclusion. Nevertheless, he returned to action with Norway in June's World Cup qualifying fixtures, recording a goal and assist in his country's 3–0 triumph over Italy.
Barcelona showed interest in Nusa last summer while he was still representing Club Brugge. Ironically, the Catalans eventually acquired Dani Olmo from RB Leipzig, with Nusa joining the German club as Olmo's replacement.
Currently, Barcelona maintain their interest in the young Norwegian, although RB Leipzig have allegedly placed a substantial valuation on Nusa. Should the German outfit refuse to lower their asking price, Barcelona may be compelled to abandon another potential signing.
2. Christopher Nkunku
Chelsea's recent signings of Liam Delap, João Pedro, Jamie Gittens and the impending arrival of Estêvão Willian could limit Christopher Nkunku's opportunities for consistent playing time under Enzo Maresca next season.
Nkunku's time at Stamford Bridge has been characterized by fitness issues and erratic displays. With several attackers appearing ahead of him in the pecking order, his exit from the club appears increasingly likely.
The Blues may demand a transfer fee that few clubs would be prepared to pay for the Frenchman's permanent services, considering his recent form. This creates an opportunity for Barcelona to explore a loan arrangement that could benefit all involved parties, as Chelsea have shown willingness to loan out peripheral players.
Nkunku's peak performances came while operating as a supporting striker at RB Leipzig. At Barcelona, Flick could position Nkunku alongside Robert Lewandowski in attack, where he feels most at home. The Frenchman has also demonstrated flexibility, with some of his finest Chelsea displays coming in the Conference League and Club World Cup while playing wide positions, enjoying the freedom to move inward—similar to Raphinha's current role at Barcelona.
Taking everything into account, a loan arrangement for Nkunku could represent a practical solution.
1. Bryan Zaragoza
Barcelona's initial La Liga defeat under Flick occurred against Osasuna, largely due to an outstanding display from Spanish international Bryan Zaragoza, who netted once and provided an assist.
Zaragoza spent the previous season on loan at Osasuna after struggling to establish himself at Bayern Munich. His circumstances under Vincent Kompany remain unchanged, with the German champions again seeking a new destination for their surplus winger.
Bayern Munich invested approximately €15 million ($14 million at the time) to acquire Zaragoza from Granada in early 2024 and are now reportedly prepared to part with him for a comparable fee.
Several Spanish media outlets indicate that Barcelona hold interest in the 23-year-old winger, with preliminary discussions already initiated with the player's representatives.
Despite managing only one goal during his Osasuna loan period, Zaragoza's inventiveness and skill in one-on-one situations on the left flank impressed Spain national team coach Luis De La Fuente, earning Zaragoza his first three international appearances.
While it may not seem like the most glamorous acquisition externally, considering the reasonable price point and Zaragoza's upside, it could potentially represent the shrewdest business Barcelona conducts this summer transfer window.