Rashford’s relationship with then United head coach Ruben Amorim had become untenable, and the attacker originally spent the second half of last season on loan at Aston Villa. The England international was rewarded with his preferred move to Barcelona, where the 28-year-old has notched up 23 goal contributions in 35 appearances across all competitions.
It’s reported by Spanish outlet Sport that Barcelona retain an interest in making Rashford’s move a permanent one, with suggestions his agent met with the club’s sporting director, Deco, earlier this month. Rashford is pushing for a permanent transfer, and is aware that he might have to make some sacrifices with his salary, given his United contract isn’t set to expire until 2028.
Barcelona have endured well-documented financial issues in recent months, with the reigning Spanish champions planning to spread Rashford’s salary over a long-term contract. It’s reported that negotiations have been calm, and crucially, an announcement over a permanent move will be made at the end of the season, barring any significant setbacks.
Manager Hansi Flick recently praised Rashford’s commitment to the club, saying: "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.
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"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 Barça 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 Barça, then it has to be 100 per cent with your whole heart. This is what I want to say to everyone: 100%. These colours, you have to live for them. All the others, I don't want."