The Nico Williams saga came to a sudden and unexpected end for FC Barcelona. Without any formal communication, the winger renewed with Athletic Club until 2035, leaving the Catalan side with no room to maneuver. Barça’s front office at Spotify Camp Nou had already sensed it coming, so there was no shock—but there was a quick reaction.

With Nico off the table, Barça reopened the file of a target they never fully closed: Luis Díaz. The 28-year-old Colombian, already a top priority in previous windows, is back in the spotlight as Plan B. His camp has already moved: they’ve told the club they’re ready to push for a transfer from Anfield to Barcelona.

The grief at Anfield and a necessary pause

The tragic death of Diogo Jota in a car accident has brought everything to a halt. Liverpool’s dressing room is in mourning, and a deeply affected Luis Díaz has paused all transfer activity. Right now, the focus is on honoring his late teammate.

But once the mourning period ends, Díaz is set on one thing: playing for Barça. He knows Deco sees him as the ideal reinforcement for the left wing.

Under contract until 2027, the key will be how much Liverpool asks for. The English club has been spending heavily and needs to sell—something that could work in Barça’s favor, especially with Díaz pushing hard.

Rashford, a conditional alternative

Plan C has a name: Marcus Rashford. The 27-year-old English forward is desperate to join Barça. With Rúben Amorim taking over at Manchester United, Rashford is no longer part of the plan—potentially paving the way for an exit.

Valued at £40 million, a loan deal is also on the table. Rashford has even told Barça he’d take a pay cut to make his dream come true.

But Barça won’t go all-in without caution. The club is aware of some red flags that surround the player’s recent past. If they pursue him, it’ll be on very favorable terms. From a financial fair play standpoint, it could be a smart move.

What comes next for Barça?

The ball is now in Liverpool’s court. If they open the door, Luis Díaz will be the chosen one. If not, and Rashford keeps insisting—with a reduced salary included—a loan move could gain traction.

One thing’s clear: Barça isn’t standing still. Nico is history. The next big move is already underway.