Barcelona want to sign Marcus Rashford after his impressive loan spell, but only if a cheeky request to Manchester United is accepted
Marcus Rashford of FC Barcelona looks on during the LaLiga EA Sports match between FC Barcelona and RCD Mallorca at Spotify Camp Nou
Manchester United have received an unfortunate update from Barcelona concerning Marcus Rashford's prospects of a permanent move(Image: Judit Cartiel, Getty Images)
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Barcelona are reportedly keen on making Marcus Rashford's move a permanent one. However, they're hoping to negotiate down his transfer fee, likely to the chagrin of Manchester United.
Despite the £26million purchase clause in Rashford's loan deal already seeming like a steal, Barca are looking to pay even less for the forward. However, Sport has noted this 'won't be possible' due to United's firm position on the matter.
Rashford, 28, has been a revelation at the Camp Nou, exceeding expectations after his difficult spell at Old Trafford. He's netted 10 goals and provided 13 assists in 34 appearances for Barcelona, including nine direct goal contributions in just eight Champions League matches.
Given his consistent use of Rashford, it's no surprise manager Hansi Flick seems to favour the England international. The attacker has started 20 times under the German this season and has only missed out once when named in a matchday squad.
Flick himself has expressed satisfaction with Rashford's progress so far. And it's a positive sign for the possibility of a permanent move that he believes the forward can continue to enhance his game.
"We always look at goals, final passes, but as a coach he can give us much more," he recently told reporters. "That's what I want to see. I'm very happy with him; he's giving us what we ask of him, but he has even more potential."
Marcus Rashford of FC Barcelona and Head coach of Barcelona Hansi Flick are present during the LaLiga EA Sports 2025/26 match between Rayo Vallecano and Barcelona
Hansi Flick appears content with Rashford's returns at Barca(Image: Guillermo Martinez/NurPhoto via Getty Images)
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Raphinha's injury problems have worked in Rashford's favour, making them more dependent on the Englishman's contributions. That said, Rashford has certainly delivered when given the opportunity.
It's a win-win situation for United. Should Barcelona choose not to activate their purchase option, his time in Spain has demonstrated the quality Rashford still possesses at the highest level, which is bound to attract interest from other clubs.
Michael Carrick talks to Marcus Rashford on the pitch for Man United
Michael Carrick reportedly wants to bring Rashford back to Old Trafford(Image: Getty)
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United might actually prefer that scenario, as they would likely be able to command a higher transfer fee for the player. Then there's the third possibility of him returning to Old Trafford, despite reports suggesting he's eager to close that chapter of his career.
Recent reports have emerged that interim United manager Michael Carrick wants his former team-mate back at the club. Should he be given the job on a permanent basis, retaining Rashford could become a higher priority.
Beyond that, Rashford himself might be more tempted to come back under a manager he previously played alongside. Carrick has received acclaim for his man-management abilities as well as his tactical approach, and Rashford's relationship with the club might not be beyond repair with Carrick at the helm.
Regardless, the likelihood of United agreeing to Barcelona's demands and reducing their asking price appears slim. That said, there could be other options the two clubs might consider, such as Barcelona including one of their own players as part of the deal.
In any case, a recent knee injury suffered in the recent win over Mallorca might affect the plans of both clubs. Rashford will be sidelined for the immediate future and could face a race against time to prove his worth before a decision must be made on his next steps.
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