Marcus Rashford is on the brink of joining Spanish giants Barcelona, according to reports emerging on Saturday.
The 27-year-old forward, long regarded as a symbol of Manchester United’s academy success, has not featured for the club since December 12 and is currently on loan at Aston Villa, a move that took place in early February.
Sources indicate that the England international has been eyeing a switch to the La Liga champions since he was sidelined by new Manchester United boss, Ruben Amorim. Rashford, who has scored 138 goals in 426 appearances for United, has reportedly identified Barcelona as his top destination.
Negotiations between both clubs are said to be at an advanced stage, with a season-long loan deal that includes an option to buy being discussed. Britain’s Press Association revealed that talks are ongoing, and there is optimism on both sides about reaching an agreement.
Rashford is one of five players who have notified Manchester United of their desire to leave the club this summer. In December, he openly declared he was “ready for a new challenge,” and more recently expressed interest in linking up with Barcelona’s rising star, 16-year-old Lamine Yamal.
Since the start of pre-season, Rashford has been training away from Amorim’s main squad—a clear indication that he no longer features in the manager’s plans. Further confirming Barcelona’s interest, the club’s sporting director Deco previously admitted he admired Rashford’s style of play, while head coach Hansi Flick described him as a “fantastic player.”
The forward’s future at Old Trafford has further been cast into doubt after he was stripped of the number 10 jersey, which has now been assigned to Brazilian forward Matheus Cunha, one of the new signings of the current transfer window. United also secured left-back Diego Leon and are close to completing a move for Brentford attacker Bryan Mbeumo in a deal worth an initial £65 million ($87 million).
Given the club’s recent spending spree, further incoming transfers are expected to be financed by departures. Offloading Rashford, even temporarily, would provide substantial relief to United’s wage bill—a consideration believed to be factored into the loan-to-buy negotiations with Barcelona.
Barcelona, who recently missed out on signing Spain winger Nico Williams after he extended his stay at Athletic Bilbao with a new 10-year deal, are eager to strengthen their attacking options. With Hansi Flick now entering his second season after guiding the team to a domestic double, adding a player of Rashford’s caliber could significantly bolster their title defense campaign.
What you should know
Marcus Rashford is close to sealing a season-long loan move to Barcelona, with an option to buy. He hasn’t played for Manchester United since December and is currently on loan at Aston Villa.
Rashford has trained separately from the first team and expressed his desire for a new challenge. His exit would help United manage their wage bill amid new signings like Matheus Cunha and Bryan Mbeumo.
