The justification for this shift in stance—less than six weeks ago, Deco explicitly named Rashford as a player Barcelona “liked”—is the preference for Liverpool forward Luis Díaz. The Colombia international is deemed to be more versatile, more experienced and more willing to sacrifice himself for the good of the team than Rashford.

Barcelona reportedly could launch a stunning pursuit of Manchester United winger Alejandro Garnacho in what would be a sickening kick to Marcus Rashford's gut. Rashford has made no secret of his desire to land at the Nou Camp this summer as he prepares to leave United permanently after two decades.