Barcelona are considering how to secure Marcus Rashford's signature from Manchester United in the summer transfer window but have one issue with the England forward
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Marcus Rashford is not guaranteed a permanent move to Barcelona(Image: Jose Breton/Pics Action/NurPhoto via Getty Images)
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Marcus Rashford's future seems to be heading in one direction, even following Ruben Amorim's exit from Manchester United. The striker appears set to prolong his stint in Barcelona after his loan period this season, though a transfer could still encounter some obstacles.
Rashford moved to the Catalan side in the summer and has since notched eight goals and 11 assists across 29 outings. The 28-year-old has shone at Barca despite a wealth of attacking options, including Lamine Yamal and Raphinha, with the club eager to retain his services.
The La Liga leaders possess a £26.1million option they can trigger to secure the player's permanent signature at the season's end. Rashford, who found the net from the substitutes' bench at the weekend, is also reportedly enthusiastic about remaining at Camp Nou.
Barca continue to be pleased with Rashford's impact this campaign but are understood to harbour some reservations regarding his defensive work. The England star is not considered as effective at pressing as Raphinha, though his commitment and attitude are valued, according to The Athletic.
This could still prove a consideration that gives Barcelona cause for reflection. The Spanish table-toppers have not been financially comfortable in recent campaigns, which might yet create hesitation come summer.
Barca may explore alternative arrangements beyond activating the clause to strike a deal with United. The combination of the transfer fee and Rashford's wages could prove challenging for the club to accommodate.
The report suggests that Barcelona could even U-turn on their plan to activate their purchase clause for Rashford - and consider signing him on loan for a second season instead. Rashford's contract with United runs until 2028.
Barcelona manager Hansi Flick has certainly seemed delighted to have Rashford available. The German boss highlighted the loanee as a prime example of commitment to the club, despite an uncertain future.
Marcus Rashford of FC Barcelona looks on prior to the LaLiga EA Sports match between Real Sociedad and FC Barcelona
Marcus Rashford's spell with Barcelona could be extended(Image: Ion Alcoba Beitia/Getty Images)
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"Marcus' performances have been really good until now, so we have to manage it, but it's [sporting director] Deco's job do things for next season," he said "We have to wait.
"We have months to go. For me, of course with Marcus we have a player on the top level, but also with our situation, and what I appreciate a lot from him [is his desire to be here].
"This is what I want to say to young players from La Masia: We are Barca and we are one of the best teams in the world. We give them the opportunity to train with us, to grow, to train with the best players in the world, the support and the confidence.
"If you want to play with Barca, then it has to be 100 per cent with your whole heart. This is what I want to say to everyone: 100 per cent. These colours, you have to live for them. All the others, I don't want."
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