Marcus Rashford's loan stint at Barcelona is approaching an end and a decision over his future is soon to be made
Marcus Rashford
A decision on Rashford's future is edging closer(Image: Getty Images)
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Manchester United are set to reopen negotiations with Barcelona over Marcus Rashford, with the Spanish club keen to secure another loan move. While the forward has impressed during his spell at the Camp Nou, club chiefs and supporters remain divided over committing to a permanent deal.
Rashford, 28, joined Barca on loan from United last summer and has produced 14 goals and 14 assists in 48 appearances across all competitions. Last Sunday, the England international curled in a sublime free‑kick to help Barca beat Real Madrid 2‑0 and clinch the La Liga title. He played 64 minutes before making way for Raphinha.
Post-match, Rashford revealed he would like to extend his spell at the club, though he admitted he is unsure what will happen this summer. "I'm not a magician, but if I was, I would stay [at Barcelona]," he said. "We will see. I came here to win.
"This is a wonderful team, they're going to win so much in the future; to be a part of that would be special."
Barcelona have delayed triggering the permanent clause in Rashford's loan agreement and, according to The Independent, are set to revisit the terms due to their restricted budget. Talks are expected to reopen next week as they look to construct a deal, with another loan described as a 'possibility.'
However, the Manchester Evening News understands United have no interest in sanctioning another loan, with the club keen to remove Rashford's substantial wages from their books. United are expected to reject Barcelona's attempts to extend the loan and remain unwilling to reduce the agreed transfer fee - meaning Hansi Flick's side must pay £26m or risk losing the forward.
Barca are actively scouting for a new left winger and have identified several targets alongside Rashford, with club chief Deco and boss Flick said not to be fully convinced on the England star and considering their options.
The Barca boss, however, has highlighted Rashford's impact across the campaign, remarking: "As for me, I appreciate Rashford that very much. I think his season was fantastic. He has good numbers, and I am very grateful that and appreciate it greatly.
"At the end of the season, we will analyse everything, and then we will see what will happen."
Given Rashford's productive spell in Spain, that fee would arguably represent a bargain. And if the La Liga champions fail to finalise a deal, the 28‑year‑old is likely to attract interest from elsewhere.
The World Cup could work in United's favour if Rashford is given the chance to impress on the global stage. He has been a regular in England squads under Thomas Tuchel.
has previously reported that United would be confident of securing a fee in the region of £50m for the academy graduate.
A return to Old Trafford isn't on the cards, even if Michael Carrick takes over as head coach. Rashford hasn’t played for United since December 2024 and even saw his No.10 shirt handed to Matheus Cunha after falling out of favour with Ruben Amorim.
The former United boss famously said he'd rather put his 63‑year‑old goalkeeping coach on the bench than a player who doesn't give maximum effort. Rashford ended last season on loan at Aston Villa and was forced to train away from the first‑team group in the summer before joining Barca.
Rashford's time in Catalonia has brought two trophies - the Spanish Supercopa and La Liga.