HANSI FLICK EQUALS BARCELONA RECORD LONG HELD BY LEGENDARY JOHAN CRYFF

 

Photo by Alex Livesey/Getty Images

Barcelona’s 5-2 win over Rayo Vallecano on Monday evening was another statement from Hansi Flick’s side as they continue to set the pace in La Liga.

It was a special victory for Flick as well, as it saw him equal a record that has stood for decades at Camp Nou.

Indeed, Flick has now matched one of the greatest managers in Barcelona’s history.

Flick matches Cruyff’s record

As reported by Mundo Deportivo, Flick has now accumulated 59 league matchdays as the leader of La Liga, equalling the legendary Johan Cruyff’s tally during his time on the Barcelona bench.

Flick’s Barcelona continue their domination. (Photo by Timothy Rogers/Getty Images)

What makes the achievement even more remarkable is the speed at which Flick has reached the milestone.

The German has managed just 79 league games in charge to get there, while Cruyff needed 300 matches to reach the same figure during his far longer tenure.

That means 74.7 percent of the league matchdays Flick has overseen as Barcelona coach have ended with the club sitting top of the table.

Among managers who have completed at least one full season in La Liga, nobody comes close. The second on the list is Pep Guardiola, who managed 57.2 percent.

A legendary start

Currently in his third season, Flick has done wonders at Barcelona.

In his first two seasons on the bench, the German has guided Barcelona to back-to-back league titles and built a side that plays with a clear identity and an attacking verve that has captivated supporters.

Now into his third campaign, Flick’s Barcelona show no sign of slowing down. With three wins from their opening three matches this season, the Catalans are once again setting the standard in Spanish football.

Cruyff remains one of the most iconic figures in Barcelona’s history, and being mentioned in the same breath as the Dutchman is a testament to Flick’s impact.

Should the German continue at this rate, surpassing the record entirely is only a matter of time, further cementing his place among the finest coaches to ever grace the Camp Nou touchline.

- Connell Edgar-Jones

GABRIEL JESUS' FIRST WORDS AFTER ARRIVING IN BARCELONA AHEAD OF €10 MOVE: 'EAGER TO SCORE GOALS'

 

Photo by Justin Setterfield/Getty Images

Barcelona are moving a step closer to completing the signing of Gabriel Jesus from Arsenal.

The Brazilian forward is set to join the club on a €10 million contract, with an additional €4 million in add-ons and Arsenal retaining a 20% sell-on fee clause.

Gabriel is slated for a medical today in Barcelona and ahead of that medical, the player appears to have already arrived in the city.

Gabriel reacts after arriving at Barcelona

Spanish journalist Victor Navarro has captured videos of Gabriel Jesus arriving in the Barcelona city this afternoon, ahead of his medical.

The forward can be seen waving the fans and even reacting to his Barcelona move for the first time after the speculations broke.

“I am eager to score many goals at Barça!” said the Arsenal forward, who is being signed as a momentary alternative to Julian Alvarez.

The Argentine was Barcelona’s top target this summer but Atletico Madrid were able to keep hold of the striker, prompting the club to sign Gabriel as an alternative.

The former Man City starlet, who was targeted by Barça way back in 2016, will be expected to operate as a number nine whenever required.

Gabriel arrives fully fit

Apart from waving at fans and showing his eagerness to getting things started at Barcelona, Gabriel Jesus offered a critical update no his fitness as well.

Gabriel Jesus is soon expected to complete his move to Barcelona. (Photo by James Fearn/Getty Images)

When asked about his injury situation, the forward replied, “My injury? My knee it’s perfect!”

This will serve as a massive relief for Barcelona fans who were worried about Gabriel’s recent issues with injury, which had drastically reduced his game-time.

With Gabriel now back to full fitness, it will be interesting to see whether or not the Brazilian international can rekindle his old form and make a big difference at Barcelona.

The forward’s past experience, coupled with his versatility in the final third should make quite the asset for Hansi Flick, but only if he can perform up to his level this season.

- Connell Edgar-Jones

PSG AGREE DEAL TO SIGN FERRAN TORRES FROM BARCELONA IN €50M TRANSFER

Getty Images 

Paris Saint-Germain have reached a definitive agreement with Barcelona to secure the services of Ferran Torres in a deal worth nearly €50 million. The Spanish international forward is now poised to move to the Parc des Princes, ending his tenure at the Camp Nou after four and a half years in Catalonia.

Luis Enrique reunites with Spanish forward

According to Mundo Deportivo, Paris Saint-Germain and Barcelona have reached a total agreement for the transfer of Torres to the French champions. The 26-year-old forward is set to swap La Liga for Ligue 1 in a deal worth slightly less than €50 million, with the transfer fee consisting of a fixed amount and no additional performance-related variables included in the final package. The move will see Torres reunite with PSG head coach Luis Enrique, under whom he previously played during his time with the Spanish national team

.The move marks a significant shift for Torres, who has reportedly already agreed to the personal terms of a five-year contract with the Parisian giants. To facilitate the final stages of the move, the Valencian-born attacker requested permission from Barcelona via his representative to skip his scheduled return to training under Hansi Flick on Wednesday.

AFP

Financial relief for the Catalan giants

For Barcelona, the sale represents a vital injection of capital and a strategic piece of financial management. The €50 million fee is considered a highly acceptable figure for a player who was entering the final year of his contract. Torres originally joined the Blaugrana from Manchester City in January 2022 for a fee of €55 million plus an additional €10 million in potential add-ons.

Beyond the immediate transfer fee, the deal provides further economic benefits regarding the club's long-term obligations. Had Barcelona chosen to renew Torres' contract, they would have been triggered to pay an additional €8 million to Manchester City due to a specific clause inserted in his original purchase agreement.

Medical tests and final formalities

The final step in the process involves Torres undergoing a comprehensive medical assessment with the PSG staff. While the agreement is verbally binding between the presidents and sporting directors, the official confirmation remains subject to the successful completion of these physical tests.

Torres leaves Barcelona having recently played a key role on the international stage, most notably scoring in the World Cup final. His arrival in Paris will provide Enrique with a versatile attacking option capable of playing across the front three, reinforcing a squad that comes off a 2-1 victory over Aston Villa on Wednesday to lift the UEFA Super Cup.

Getty

A trophy-laden legacy at Camp Nou

Torres leaves Barcelona following a memorable and trophy-laden spell, during which he helped the Catalan giants secure three La Liga titles, three Spanish Super Cups, and one Copa del Rey. Across his time with the club, the Spanish forward made 207 appearances in all competitions, registering 65 goals and 23 assists.

- Khaled Mahmoud

OFFICIAL: MARC-ANDRÉ TER STEGEN JOINS AJAX ON LOAN FROM BARCELONA

 

Photo by Pablo Rodriguez/Quality Sport Images/Getty Images

Dutch giants Ajax confirmed on Tuesday the signing of goalkeeper Marc-André ter Stegen on a season-long loan from Barcelona.

Our new number 1.

— AFC Ajax (@AFCAjax) August 4, 2026

Ter Stegen was a request from new Ajax manager Míchel who worked briefly with the German at Girona at the end of last season before Ter Stegen suffered a hamstring injury that caused him to miss the World Cup.

The 34-year-old says he wants to help “bring Ajax back to where it belongs”, and will be hoping to finally play a full season of football again after dealing with multiple major injuries in the last two years.

According to the latest reporting, Barça will cover 90% of Ter Stegen’s salary during his time at Ajax but will be hoping that Ter Stegen’s performances over a full season can convince Ajax or another club to sign him on a permanent deal next summer.

Good luck at Ajax, MATS!

- Renato Gonçalves

MARCUS RASHFORD IN TALKS OVER £40M MAN UTD TRANSFER EXIT

Marcus Rashford looks set to leave Manchester United (Picture: Getty)

Marcus Rashford is in talks to complete a permanent transfer away from Manchester United after his dream move to Barcelona fell through.

Rashford, who featured for England at this summer’s World Cup, hoped to earn a permanent move to Barca after a largely impressive loan spell.

The 28-year-old scored 14 goals and provided 10 assists to help Barcelona retain their La Liga title and go deep in the Champions League.

Barca boss Hansi Flick appeared keen for Rashford to stay at the Nou Camp but a deal always looked unlikely after the Spanish champions spent £70m to sign his England teammate Anthony Gordon from Newcastle United.

Rashford is therefore due to return to Old Trafford after a break following his World Cup commitments but Manchester United are not planning to reintegrate him into Michael Carrick’s squad.

As a result Rashford, who is available to sign for £40m for clubs other than Manchester City and Liverpool, is searching for a new club.

According to The Sun, Rashford is in talks with Turkish giants Fenerbahce, who are ready to ‘break the back’ to secure his signature.

Rashford has likely played his last game for Man Utd (Picture: Getty)

Fenerbahce are desperate to reel in rivals Galatasaray next season and believe Rashford can help them do just that.

Rashford is in talks with Fenerbahce after being recommended a move to Arsenal by the likes of Paul Scholes, Rio Ferdinand and David Seaman.

Discussing Arsenal’s reported interest in Rashford during the World Cup, Manchester United legend Ferdinand said: ‘I would take Rashford. For £40m, I’m sweeping Rashford off his feet.’

Rashford wanted to stay at Barcelona (Picture: Getty)

Ex-Old Trafford midfielder Paul Scholes added: ‘That would be a great move, a great move for both parties. I think Arsenal would be a great move for him and the club.’

Mikel Arteta is keen to welcome a new winger to the Emirates Stadium but his current focus is on Real Madrid and Brazil superstar Vinicius Junior.

Meanwhile, Barcelona boss Flick has discussed the club’s decision not to sign Rashford, insisting he will ‘miss’ the England star.

‘You don’t know what happens with players who are on loan – our situation is not easy for that,’ Flick said last week.

- Louis Sealey

BIRMINGHAM CITY VS. BARCELONA | 2-2 | INTERNATIONAL FRIENDLY|

 

JUDE BELLINGHAM RECEIVES HERO'S WELCOME ON RETURN TO BIRMINGHAM CITY

 

BIRMINGHAM, ENGLAND - JULY 31: Jude Bellingham, England International and former Birmingham City player, acknowledges the fans as he takes his seat during the during the pre-season friendly match between Birmingham City and FC Barcelona at St Andrew’s at Knighthead Park on July 31, 2026 in Birmingham, England. (Photo by Catherine Ivill - AMA/Getty Images) Getty Images

Jude Bellingham enjoyed an emotional homecoming on Friday as he returned to St Andrew’s Stadium to watch Birmingham City’s preseason friendly against Barcelona.

The Real Madrid midfielder, who began his professional career with Birmingham before making his move to Borussia Dortmund and eventually Los Blancos, was back at the club where his rise to stardom first began. His appearance in the stands did not go unnoticed, with supporters giving the England international a rousing ovation in recognition of everything he has accomplished since leaving his boyhood club.

Jude. He's home. 💙 pic.twitter.com/4pb6UvXa5x

— Birmingham City FC (@BCFC) July 31, 2026

Bellingham made his senior debut for Birmingham as a teenager and quickly established himself as one of the brightest young talents in English football. His rapid development earned him a move to Borussia Dortmund, where he became one of Europe's premier midfielders before joining Real Madrid in the summer of 2023.

"He's one of our own." 💙 What a reception for Jude Bellingham. Special moment at St. Andrew's. #BCFC #KRO pic.twitter.com/6mivDdB6rf

— Inti Official – Co‑Founded Blues 4 All (@Inti_Official) July 31, 2026

The warm reception highlighted the lasting affection between Bellingham and the Birmingham faithful, whose admiration for their former academy graduate remains as strong as ever.

- Managing Madrid

LIONEL MESSI REACTS TO ICONIC LAMINE YAMAL PHOTO BEFORE WORLD CUP FINAL:'IT'S CRAZY ..'

Photo by Elsa/Getty Images

Lionel Messi has described Lamine Yamal as one of the best players in world football ahead of Sunday’s World Cup final, but the Argentina captain admitted he hopes the Barcelona youngster is kept quiet when the two nations meet with football’s biggest prize at stake.

The meeting between Spain and Argentina has naturally been built around two generations of football’s elite. 

On one side is Messi, preparing for another World Cup final with Argentina. 

On the other is Yamal, whose performances have confirmed his status as one of the brightest talents in the game.

Away from the official press conferences, FIFA organised a special event at the Fan Fest featuring Spain coach Luis de la Fuente, midfielder Rodri, Argentina manager Lionel Scaloni and goalkeeper Emiliano Martínez. 

The biggest attraction, however, was Messi, who also appeared alongside Novak Djokovic, Kevin Durant and Tom Brady for a discussion ahead of the final.

Messi feels Yamal is destined for a special career

Messi has nothing but praise for Lamine Yamal. (Photo by Elsa/Getty Images)

Asked about the teenager’s rapid rise, Messi had nothing but admiration for the Barcelona winger, revealing he has followed his progress closely because of his affection for the Catalan club.

“Lamine is a truly great player, whom I’ve followed very closely because he plays for a club I love and for which I always wish the best. 

“At just 19, he’s already one of the world’s leading players. He has his whole career ahead of him and the chance to achieve something historic. 

"We’ll try to make sure it doesn’t happen this time,” said the Barcelona legend.

Messi reflects on iconic Lamine Yamal photo

Messi was also asked about the famous photograph taken nearly two decades ago, showing him holding a baby Yamal during a charity calendar photoshoot.

The image has resurfaced repeatedly in recent months, especially with the pair now preparing to face each other on football’s biggest stage.

Yes, those photos you’ve seen are real.

More than 18 years ago, a baby named Lamine Yamal and his mom Sheila met Lionel Messi at a UNICEF fundraising photoshoot.

Today, their achievements on the pitch inspire millions. Off the pitch, both Messi and Lamine Yamal use their voices and platforms as UNICEF Goodwill Ambassadors to support and advocate for children around the world.

The goal? That every child survives, thrives, and fulfils their potential.

We are proud to have them on our team.

Credit: Joan Monfort

Reflecting on that moment, Messi said, “That photo is crazy. Life… 

“I had my photo taken with him when I was a baby and now we’re set to face each other in a World Cup final. 

“He’s one of the best in the world right now and I wish him the very best of luck because if he does well, so will Barcelona. 

“That said, we’ll try to put in a good performance so he doesn’t play at his best, although that’s difficult.”

While his admiration for Yamal was clear, Messi also reminded everyone that Spain’s strength lies in the collective rather than one individual.

He concluded, “It’s not just Lamine. Spain have some brilliant players and play great football. We’ve got our own weapons too.”

Source: Mundo Deportivo

- Swapnil Bhopatkar

LIONEL MESSI ALMOST PLAYED FOR SPAIN: THE FORGOTTEN STORY OF A VHS TAPE

FIFA World Cup 2026 final carries added significance for Lionel Messi, who came close to committing his international future to Spain during the early years of his career.

Lionel Messi in action
© AFP

After more than a month of intense competition, Argentina and Spain have emerged as the two finalists of the FIFA World Cup 2026. The tournament, which began with a record 48 teams, has now come down to a highly anticipated title clash between the two football giants, set to take place on Monday in New Jersey. For Argentina captain Lionel Messi, the occasion marks a full-circle moment. The 39-year-old is set to play in his third World Cup final during his sixth appearance at the tournament. However, this final carries added significance for Messi, who came close to committing his international future to Spain during the early years of his career.

In September 2001, Messi arrived in Barcelona at the age of 13 to join the club's famed La Masia academy. He would go on to spend 21 years with the Catalan giants, developing into one of the greatest footballers of all time before leaving for Paris Saint-Germain in 2021.

Yet despite spending most of his formative and professional years in Spain, Messi's dream was always to represent Argentina on the international stage-a decision that ultimately shaped one of the most iconic careers in football history.

Former Argentina coach Jose Pekerman, who handed Lionel Messi his senior international debut, once revealed that he first learned about the youngster from members of Argentina's coaching staff during the 2003 U-17 World Cup.

Back in 2002, then-national team coach Marcelo Bielsa and his assistant Claudio Vivas came across information about the Barcelona prodigy while visiting Spain to monitor several Argentine internationals playing there.

However, the story took a different turn when one of Messi's early representatives, Horacio Gaggiolo, shared an incident about the VHS tapes.

"That was [Messi's dad] Jorge's idea. He told me: "Horacio, the Argentine national team is coming to Barcelona, can you get them some footage of Leo?" Leo wasn't well known in Argentina. We had a video that I was given by Barca with some plays, and I went to the Hotel Princesa Sofia in Barcelona where they were staying. I asked for Vivas, who was Bielsa's assistant," Gaggiolo told ESPN, as quoted by Hindustan Times. 

"When Marcelo renewed his contract with Argentina, we toured Europe to explain to the players why we had renewed after the South Korea-Japan World Cup [in 2002]. During that stop in Barcelona, an Argentine man approached me," he added.

"I told Marcelo about him and he asked: "Does he play well?" I said: "He doesn't just play well, he's incredible!" "Let me see, play a little bit of it," Marcelo said, adding as I played the tape: "But play it at normal speed, you can't see anything like this." I said: "Marcelo, it is at normal speed, I just pressed play." He said: "But this kid is unbelievable!"

However, by the time the video footage reached Hugo Tocalli, Argentina's youth team coach, preparations for the 2003 FIFA U-17 World Cup were already at an advanced stage. As a result, Tocalli chose not to include Messi in the squad. Argentina eventually suffered a 3-2 defeat to Spain in the semi-finals. Following the tournament, a member of Spain's team staff told Tocalli that Argentina would likely have beaten Spain had Messi featured in their lineup.

How Messi played for Argentina?

Upon returning to Argentina, Tocalli set out to bring Messi into the national team setup. A friendly match was quickly organized to assess the young forward, but the circumstances surrounding it were rather unusual. With little time available to make arrangements, the match even had an Argentine referee officiating it, as FIFA regulations required a recognized match official for the game.

Horacio Gaggioli, revealed that there was significant interest from Spain regarding the youngster's international future.

"I received many calls asking whether he could play for the Spanish national team," Gaggioli recalled. "I would tell them that the decision ultimately rested with Leo and his family. There was no question about his ability, but he had to choose."

Despite the speculation, Messi's stance remained unwavering. According to Gaggioli, the football icon was always determined to represent Argentina while continuing his club career with Barcelona.

- Tushar Mamgaain

UCI BANS TOUR DE FRANCE RIDERS FROM USING ICE SOCKS FOR COOLING IN STAGE 1 TEAM TIME TRIAL

Despite 30° heat, riders are forced to remove ice socks as UCI says it "changes their morphology"

Image credit: Josh Croxton)

At the start of the Tour de France stage one team time trial in Barcelona, as riders left the makeshift warm-up area behind the start ramp, I watched as rider after rider was stopped by UCI officials and forced to remove any ice socks that they'd stuffed into their skinsuits.

On a day where temperatures soared past 30° C, riders were using every trick in the book to keep their core temperatures down before the start; ice vests, misting fans, alcohol sprays and even a strange cold water tub for the Netcompany Ineos riders' arms were on show, as well as the oldest tactic of them all: ice socks.

For the uninitiated, these are simply pairs of tights, cut down, stuffed with ice cubes and then tied off, and riders generally put them into the back of their skinsuits behind their necks.

Not only does the cold help to chill the rider, but as the ice melts and the water then evaporates, it removes heat in the process.

They are a common sight at the start of – and indeed during – almost every warm race in the calendar, but the UCI is seemingly now cracking down on their use.

“I know it’s only a little thing, but you have to draw the line. If you allow sometimes but not others, it’s not fair. And if you allow a little, riders may take more,” he said.

Indeed, article 1.3.032 of the UCI's technical regulations states: “Clothing and other items or accessories worn by a rider (including but not limited to helmets, glasses, shoes or in-race communication devices) may not modify the morphology of the rider.

"Moreover, any non-essential element which is added on (or under) or integrated in any clothing, or other item or accessory worn by a rider shall be forbidden. A non-essential element shall be any element which does not have a purpose which is exclusively of clothing or protection, or which is not strictly necessary for the functionality of the clothing, or other item or accessory. This shall also apply regarding any material or substance applied onto the skin or clothing and which is not itself an item of clothing or another item or accessory worn by a rider."

There's little doubt that a pair of tights is clothing, and that an ice sock down the back of a skinsuit can be classed as an element added under clothing, but I'm sure some would argue against the 'non-essential' part of the rule's wording, given the blistering heat on the streets of Barcelona on Saturday.

Many ice socks were abandoned at the start line over the course of the day. (Image credit: Future)

The confusion among staff and riders of various teams as they were stopped from entering the start ramp suggested it was a new rule to some of them, but Red Bull-Bora-Hansgrohe’s Head of Engineering, Dan Bigham, tells Cyclingnews that it’s actually been in force for a little while. "The rules are now explicit in that it’s only a radio down the front," he explained.

Visma-Lease a Bike's head of performance equipment, Jenco Drost, concurred.

"Since last year, they're quite sharp on items under your suit."

Despite this, images from the recent Tour de Suisse, which show a few different riders with ice packs in their jerseys, suggest the rule is yet to be enforced as consistently as the UCI might like.

Marcel Camprubi of Team Pinarello Q36.5 was among many riders seen using ice during stage 5 of the recent Tour de Suisse. (Image credit: Getty Images)

"It was shared in the Tour de France equipment meeting," Drost continued, "but with this weather, riders try to keep it as long as possible."

- Josh Croxton

'DECO SENT AN OFFER' - JOAN LAPORTA SAYS BARCELONA HAVE MADE A BID FOR JULIAN ALVAREZ

“We know the player has wanted to come since before playing for Manchester City.”

Photo by Guillermo Martinez/NurPhoto via Getty Images) NurPhoto via Getty Images

Joan Laporta is officially Barcelona president again and spoke about Julian Alvarez at an inauguration event on Wednesday.

Barcelona are keen to bring in Alvarez this summer but Atletico continue to insist they haven’t received an offer from the Catalans and that he’s not for sale.

Laporta insists that the two clubs have been talking and that Deco submitted a bid, believed to be for 100 million euros, for the Argentina international.

“We’ve spoken with Atlético de Madrid and Deco sent an offer. We know the player has wanted to come since before playing for Manchester City,” he said.

”I spoke with Gil Marin, who told me that in principle they did not plan to sell. The offer is firm and we will maintain it. We will not be at the expense of what Atlético de Madrid says.

“We have a great relationship with Atleti. The offer will remain in force and could be made, but it is not unlimited in time. Atlético says that they do not sell because they had no alternative; now if they have an alternative, we will see.”

Marin also admitted previously that he’d spoken with Laporta about Alvarez but also accused the Barca chief of “disrespecting” his club and insisted the Catalans aren’t capable of carrying out such a big-money transfer.

- Gill Clark

ANTHONY GORDON'S HUGE £80M BARCELONA DEAL WITH THREE CLAUSES SET TO MAKE NEWCASTLE MILLIONS

Anthony Gordon's sale to Barcelona could prove highly lucrative for Newcastle United down the line

Anthony Gordon made a big-money move to Barcelona before the World Cup(Image: Getty Images)

Anthony Gordon's move to Barcelona this summer could end up landing Newcastle United millions due to three clauses inserted into the deal. While he's been at the centre of one of the biggest transfers of the summer, the Liverpudlian winger failed to impress for England against Ghana on Tuesday evening.

In fact, so far, he's looked a shadow of the man that the Catalan giants shelled out in excess of £69.3million for. Three Lions boss Thomas Tuchel elected to keep Gordon in his starting line-up for the tie with the Black Stars despite also underperforming in England's 4-2 win over Croatia last week.

Gordon's speed, directness and ability to race to the byline are just some of the reasons Barcelona chose to move for him over Marcus Rashford, who had impressed on loan at Barca last season. However, Gordon will do well to keep his place for England's clash with Panama on Saturday night.

Despite Gordon more often than not starring for Newcastle during his time in the North East, there'll be sections of the fanbase who believe they've had the better end of the deal with the player currently struggling at the World Cup.

He's signed on for five years in Spain and the figures involved are rather astonishing. His deal is set to expire in 2031 and it's thought he's pulling in £300,000 per week, for an annual salary of £15.6 million. Over the full five years of his contract, this amounts to around just shy of £80m.

Gordon, who joined Newcastle from Everton in 2023, cost the club £45m. The deal to take the attacker to the Camp Nou will see 15 per cent being paid to the Toffees.

Gordon struggled to make an impact against Ghana(Image: Getty Images)

With that in mind, the Magpies' trio of clauses mean there's a reality where they will bank much more than the initial fee for Gordon in the future.

Here we take a look at the trio of clauses, which were added to the deal by the club's sporting director Ross Wilson, and just how much Newcastle could bank from the deal.

The 60% Appearance Clause

Newcastle will receive £860,000 (€1m) per season if Gordon features in at least 60 per cent of Barcelona's fixtures, something he has never struggled to do during his time at St James' Park. If he stays fit and remains a regular starter, Newcastle will max this out at £4.3m (€5m) by the end of his contract.

The Silverware Clause

A further £4.3m (€5m) will be paid to Newcastle if Gordon helps Barcelona win trophies during his stint at the Camp Nou. This could bode well for the Magpies with Barcelona having won La Liga for the past two consecutive seasons.

He signed a five-year deal(Image: Adria Puig/Anadolu via Getty Images)

Sell-On Clause

Newcastle also wisely inserted a sell-on clause into the deal. While the exact percentage has been kept under wraps, it will ensure that the North East outfit will take a cut of any future transfer fee. This is typically based on the sale's profit if Barcelona choose to cut ties with Gordon before his contract expires.

- Chris Burns

MAN UTD SET BARCELONA HARD LINE OVER MARCUS RASHFORD TRANSFER TALKS

 

Marcus Rashford spent last season on loan at Barcelona from Manchester United (Image: Getty

Barcelona's option to sign Marcus Rashford from Manchester United for £26million expired at midnight on Monday, meaning the La Liga giants must now negotiate a fresh fee should they wish to pursue the forward. United have made clear they will not entertain any approach from Barcelona involving another loan arrangement.

Barca wasted little time in securing Anthony Gordon from Newcastle in a £70m deal at the start of the transfer window. The left winger's arrival has had a significant impact on how Rashford's future is likely to unfold this summer.

Rashford is currently on duty with England at the World Cup, though he is expected to report back for United's pre-season following a period of rest after the tournament concludes.

The World Cup final is scheduled for July 19. Even should England go all the way to the final, Rashford would in theory be available in time for United's last pre-season friendly against AC Milan on August 15

While United are prepared for the possibility of Rashford returning for pre-season training, it is understood the club's preferred outcome would be to agree a permanent transfer fee before the summer window closes.

He has two years remaining on his £325,000 per week United contract, which he signed in the summer of 2023 following a 30-goal campaign.

Bayern Munich have also been weighing up a move for Rashford after missing out on Gordon, who opted for Barcelona instead. Harry Kane, Eric Dier, Michael Olise and Luis Diaz have all previously made the move from England to the Bundesliga giants.

Rashford chipped in with 14 goals and 14 assists for Barcelona as they won the La Liga title. Michael Carrick, who has both played alongside and managed Rashford, hinted that the door remained open for a return when quizzed about the forward's future two months ago.

Carrick said: "I just think there are decisions to be made in time, really, on certain things, and obviously Marcus is in that situation. But at this point in time, nothing's been decided. And it will be, because it has to be at a certain point, but at this stage, there's nothing to say."

When asked whether it was a case of never closing doors with players, Carrick responded: "Yeah, I'm not going on the Marcus individual one, because I think, like I've already touched on, I think to comment either way at this stage is just not the right thing to do, because there's uncertainties, for sure. 

But for me, as I said, individual players who I'm able to work with in this part of the squad then I enjoy doing that, and trying to get the best out of them."

While Carrick stopped short of ruling out a Rashford return, his comments came at a time when Barcelona were pressuring United into accepting a fee below £26m. Since Ineos assumed control of football operations, trimming the wage bill has been a key objective, making Rashford's departure a priority. His iconic number 10 shirt was handed to Matheus Cunha last year.

- Steven Railston & Mark Wakefield

FINAL CLASSIFICATION | BARCELONA-CATALUNYA GRAND PRIX 2026

 

BARCELONA-CATALUNYA GP RESULTS | ROUND 07 | FORMULA 1

 

BARCELONA-CATALUNYA GRAND PRIX 2026 | QUALIFYING CLASSIFICATION

 

BARCELONA GRAND PRIX FASTEST FREE PRACTICE 1

 

ESTIMATED CLUB EARNINGS | UEFA CHAMPIONS LEAGUE 2025/26

 

ULI HOENEẞ ON HARRY KANE

 

🚨 Uli Hoeneß on Harry Kane:

🗣️ Hoeneß: "Harry is the best transfer we've ever made. Barcelona are interested? Well Bayern is a buying club not a selling club, and Barca have no money anyway."

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