Barcelona are continuing discussions with Manchester United regarding the future of Marcus Rashford, with both clubs seeking resolution before the upcoming World Cup, according to talkSPORT’s Ben Jacobs. Rashford has revitalized his career with a successful loan spell in Spain, scoring 14 goals and providing 14 assists to help Barcelona secure the La Liga title.
The England international joined Spotify Camp Nou on a season-long loan last July, with Barcelona holding an option to make the transfer permanent for €30 million (£26m) this summer. However, reports from The Athletic indicate Barcelona have become hesitant about exercising this clause, with The Independent suggesting they would prefer to negotiate another loan deal with United.
Despite this, Jacobs reports that Barcelona remain open to a permanent deal, but are hoping to restructure the agreement into a new season-long loan with a conditional obligation to buy based on Rashford’s playing time in the 2026-27 season. Rashford himself has publicly expressed his desire to stay at Barcelona, stating to reporters earlier this month, “I don’t know [if I will stay], I’m not a magician but if I was I would stay at Barcelona.”
Barcelona may generate funds for a potential Rashford deal by selling midfielder Marc Casado, with Spanish publication SPORT reporting offers from clubs in the Saudi Pro League. The sale of Casado would also alleviate Barcelona’s already well-stocked midfield options, which include Pedri, Gavi, Frenkie de Jong, Dani Olmo, Fermin Lopez, and Marc Bernal.
Meanwhile, Manchester United are reportedly prioritizing a permanent sale of Rashford as they plan a midfield overhaul this summer, according to The Independent. The club has been linked with Real Madrid’s Aurelien Tchouameni, Atalanta’s Ederson, and Nottingham Forest’s Elliot Anderson. Manager Michael Carrick emphasized the importance of the upcoming transfer window, stating on the club’s official website that it is a key opportunity to “keep moving forward” and address areas needing improvement following player departures.
