Barcelona's search for their next star striker has led them to Newcastle United's Alexander Isak, who has been in sensational form with seven goals in his last five appearances, bringing his season total to an impressive 10 goals in 10 games. The 25-year-old Swedish international has emerged as the Catalan giants' top choice to eventually succeed Robert Lewandowski.
Sources close to the situation indicate that Newcastle United has set a steep £100 million valuation for their prized asset. This figure presents a significant challenge for Barcelona, who continue to navigate financial difficulties that could complicate both immediate and summer transfer possibilities. Reports suggest Isak has now leapfrogged both Sporting CP's Viktor Gyökeres and Manchester City's prolific scorer Erling Haaland on Barcelona's transfer priority list.
Meanwhile, Marcus Rashford's potential exit from Manchester United has taken an interesting turn, with AC Milan emerging as the leading contender for his signature. The Serie A club appears better equipped than Barcelona to handle the 27-year-old England international's considerable wage demands. Manchester United's preference for a loan arrangement without a purchase clause adds another layer to the negotiations.
While Barcelona's sporting director Deco has engaged in preliminary talks regarding Rashford, the club would need to generate funds through the sales of players such as Ronald Araújo, Eric García, and Ansu Fati to strengthen their financial position. AS Monaco has also joined the pursuit, preparing what insiders describe as a "realistic" proposal for the forward.
In other transfer news, Chelsea has expressed interest in Manchester United's emerging talent Kobbie Mainoo. The 19-year-old midfielder, currently valued at £60 million, has shown reluctance to conclude contract discussions despite having a deal that runs through 2027.
United's manager Ruben Amorim has acknowledged Mainoo's progress, stating the player is "improving," but the club faces mounting pressure to consider selling some academy products to maintain compliance with Premier League profit and sustainability regulations. This financial predicament could also impact the future of 20-year-old prospect Alejandro Garnacho.
