Luis Diaz and Marcus Rashford both pushing for Barcelona move as Catalan side weigh up alternatives after Nico Williams rejection bombshell

Barcelona wanted to sign Williams from Athletic but they were caught off-guard after the player signed an extension with the Basque club. According to Mundo Deportivo, sporting director Deco is now considering his backup plans which include signing either Liverpool forward Diaz or Manchester United Rashford. Both wingers are interested in moving to Spain and are willing to push for the transfer.

Deco's initial plan is to sign Diaz, whom he has been monitoring since last year. The Colombian winger has two years left on his contract and he and his agent are willing to talk to Liverpool for a possible move this summer. Should this plan fail as well, Deco has Plan B up his sleeves, which is to sign Rashford. The United winger is waiting for Barcelona to make a move for him and has reportedly offered to lower his wages to join Blaugrana.

Diaz will prove an expensive signing with Liverpool reluctant to sell, which could put him out of their reach. Meanwhile, Deco's concern regarding Rashford stems from his attitude problems, which led to the winger's struggles at United under Erik ten Hag and Ruben Amorim.

The only silver lining in bringing Rashford to Catalunya is that it will be easier for the club to register the player while in compliance with the FFP and PSR rules. The Red Devils have put a price tag of €40 million (£34m/$47m) on the winger, but a loan with a buy option could simplify the process. While Diaz is a permanent solution to Barca's winger problem, adding Rashford is a cheaper and easier option for the Spanish side. The club will decide on its plan in the coming weeks.