City Reports logo
Thursday, January 22, 2026
City Reports logo

Barcelona consider Man City star as Marcus Rashford replacement

Barcelona are once again scanning the Premier League market as they plan ahead for next season, with a familiar problem shaping their transfer thinking: how to strengthen the squad without overstepping strict financial limits.

According to report, Barcelona are considering signing Savinho on loan. The Manchester City winger has quietly emerged as a possible alternative should the club decide against keeping Marcus Rashford on a permanent basis.

The Catalan side have spent recent seasons juggling ambition with economic reality, and that balancing act is expected to continue into the next campaign.

While Barcelona have already taken steps to refresh their attacking options, uncertainty over long-term solutions means planning has started early behind the scenes.

Rashford loan raises long-term questions

Barcelona moved to reinforce their forward line last summer by securing the loan signing of Marcus Rashford from Manchester United.

The deal was seen as an opportunity to add pace, experience and goals without committing immediately to a costly permanent transfer. For a club still operating under tight financial controls, the move made sense both sporting-wise and economically.

Rashford’s arrival brought significant attention, not just because of his profile but also because of what he represents.

A proven Premier League attacker, the England international was expected to add a direct threat and provide flexibility across the front line.

However, despite flashes of quality, Barcelona’s hierarchy remain cautious about committing to a full transfer at the end of the loan spell.

That hesitation is largely driven by finances. Barcelona continue to feel the effects of past spending and remain bound by La Liga’s salary cap rules.

Any permanent deal for Rashford would likely require a substantial fee and wages that could stretch the club’s limits.

As a result, sporting director Deco and his team are exploring other options that could offer similar attacking qualities at a lower overall cost.

This has led Barcelona to draw up a shortlist of potential alternatives, focusing on younger players with room to grow rather than established stars commanding premium fees.

The aim is to secure talent that fits both the club’s footballing philosophy and its financial framework. It is within this context that Barcelona are considering signing Savinho on loan.

The Brazilian winger, currently on Manchester City’s books, is seen as a player who ticks several important boxes.

He is young, technically gifted and capable of operating in wide areas, traits that align closely with Barcelona’s traditional style of play. Crucially, he may also be more attainable than other high-profile targets.

Savinho fits Barcelona’s financial and footballing vision

Savinho’s situation at Manchester City is a key factor in Barcelona’s interest. Pep Guardiola’s squad is stacked with attacking talent, making regular minutes difficult to come by for younger players trying to establish themselves.

While Savinho is highly rated, competition for places at the Etihad Stadium means his role has been limited, opening the door to potential interest from elsewhere.

According to reports from Spain, Barcelona’s interest is more than casual. As outlined by Fichajes, the winger is seen as a strong match for what the club are seeking.

At just 21, he represents a longer-term investment rather than a short-term fix. Barcelona have increasingly focused on building a squad that can grow together, blending academy graduates with carefully selected signings from abroad.

Savinho’s age and playing style make him an attractive option within that strategy.

From a financial perspective, Barcelona would initially look to structure any move as a loan deal.

This approach mirrors the Rashford arrangement and would allow the club to strengthen the squad without committing immediately to a major outlay.

A loan would also give Savinho the chance to gain regular first-team football, something he may struggle to secure consistently at Manchester City in the short term.

LATEST NEWS

Manchester City completed the £20m signing of Marc Guehi

Guardiola lists many crucial positions Marc Guehi can play at Man City

Pep Guardiola believes the signing of Marc Guehi will help his team now and in the future, stating that the defender can play multiple...

Man City star rushed to hospital in an ambulance after needing oxygen due to...

Out-on-loan Manchester City forward Divin Mubama was taken to hospital by ambulance after suffering a serious injury during Stoke City’s Championship match against Queens...
Pep Guardiola

Man Utd 2-0 Man City: Pep Guardiola reveals what is responsible for Old Trafford...

Pep Guardiola has spoken on why his side were beaten by their local rivals as Manchester City suffered a 2-0 defeat at Old Trafford. Michael...