Jan Virgili would cost half as much as Víctor Muñoz

Raphinha’s untimely injury has opened the door for Marcus Rashford, 28, to step into a starting role at a decisive stage of the season. Unless Hansi Flick turns to alternatives such as Fermín or Dani Olmo, Barcelona will fight for silverware with the English forward leading the line. It will be a defining test to determine whether the club triggers the €30 million option or explores other ways to keep him for another season.

At the same time, the sporting department continues to scan the market. Names like Víctor Muñoz, 22, and Jan Virgili, 19, have emerged. Muñoz has a €40 million release clause. As previously reported by MD, Barcelona are not fully convinced about the investment because half of that fee would go to Real Madrid, who retain 50 percent of the striker’s rights after selling him to Osasuna and also hold a buyback option for €8 million in June. Despite positive scouting reports, that Real Madrid connection complicates the deal.

Virgili, on the other hand, represents a more affordable option. Barcelona initially wanted him to step up to Barça Atlètic, where he finished last season as an important player. At the time, they did not consider him ready for the first team, and Flick did not include him in the preseason tour. Instead of playing in Segunda Federación, he accepted Mallorca’s offer and made his debut at the Santiago Bernabéu just days later.

Barcelona sold 60 percent of his rights to Mallorca while retaining a percentage of any future transfer and a right of first refusal. He currently has a €30 million release clause, but Barcelona could bring him back for around €18 million. Virgili, who is developing away from home in his first professional season, has publicly admitted it would be difficult to turn down a potential return. For now, however, his focus is on helping his team avoid relegation.

Virgili was specifically requested by Jagoba Arrasate, who has since been dismissed and replaced by Martín Demichelis. So far, the winger is enjoying a strong season. He is among the players who recover possession most frequently per match, averaging five, and ranks fourth in La Liga for successful dribbles with 2.5 per game, behind only Lamine Yamal, Vinícius, and Nico Williams. He has yet to score his first goal but has already provided four assists and drawn two penalties.

He also showcased his quality during the first half he played at the Spotify Camp Nou, where he gave Jules Koundé plenty to handle. His performances have not gone unnoticed across Europe, with several clubs already making inquiries. Barcelona, while yet to make a move, are closely monitoring him.