manchestereveningnews.co.uk

Marcus Rashford handed Man United exit route update amid Barcelona transfer stance

The latest Manchester United transfer news and rumours as Marcus Rashford continues to be linked with a move away from Old Trafford.

Marcus Rashford warms up for Man Utd.

Marcus Rashford is expected to leave Man Utd this summer.(Image: Carl Recine/Getty Images)

Marcus Rashford could be dealt yet another setback in his attempt to leave Manchester United this summer. The Manchester Evening News understands the academy graduate is one of five players to have been given extended leave from the club in an attempt to source a permanent transfer away from Old Trafford.

The England international, 27, spent last season on loan at Aston Villa - after falling down the pecking order under Ruben Amorim and his time at the club appears to be drawing to an end. Rashford is reportedly keen on a move to La Liga side Barcelona, who are looking to bolster their forward line.

Barca's recent move for Nico Williams appeared to end any pursuit of the United forward, only for a dramatic twist which saw the Spanish international agree new terms with Athletic Bilbao.

It's re-opened the door for Rashford, who is still pushing for an exit from United, though recent reports may have handed him yet another blow. Hansi Flick's team have also been linked with a move for Liverpool winger Luis Diaz, along with Bayern Munich and clubs in Saudi Arabia.

Sky Germany reporter Florian Plettenberg says the German side have held talks with Diaz's representatives, with the winger reportedly telling Liverpool he'd be open to departing if an exciting offer were to emerge.

Posting on X (was Twitter), Plettenber said: "Understand Luis #Diaz has once again made it clear that he is open to leaving Liverpool if a really exciting offer arrives. #LFC have been informed. However, they have blocked everything so far (FC Bayern, Barcelona, etc.)

"Max Eberl has held new talks with Diaz's management over recent days. As reported, Bayern remain keen on Diaz. There are still no agreements or offers. It is complicated, but Bayern are trying."

Barcelona will also be keeping an eye on close developments, with Spanish media outlet AS claiming Diaz's agents have been in talks with the Catalan giants.

The report claims that the deal for Williams broke down after the forward asked for a release clause to be inserted into his contract, if Barca were unable to register him for the upcoming campaign, amid ongoing financial struggles. Diaz has reportedly opted against a clause like that.

The La Liga champions know that Rashford will be available for a cheaper fee this summer, but appear to have their mind set on Diaz.

Here at The Manchester Evening News, we are dedicated to bringing you the best Manchester United coverage and analysis.

Make sure you don't miss out on the latest United news by joining our free WhatsApp group. You can get all the breaking news and best analysis sent straight to your phone by clicking here to subscribe.

You can also subscribe to our free newsletter service. Click here to be sent all the day's biggest stories.

And, finally, if you would rather listen to our expert analysis then make sure to check out our Manchester is Red podcast, featuring The Samuel Luckhurst Show and The Midweek Debate. Our shows are available on all podcast platforms, including Spotify and Apple Podcasts, and you can also watch along on YouTube.

Read full news in source page