Marcus Rashford's loan spell at Barcelona is nearing its conclusion as the Manchester United loanee faces an uncertain future
Marcus Rashford of FC Barcelona
Marcus Rashford's permanent move to Barcelona has been endorsed by a team-mate(Image: Ion Alcoba Beitia/Getty Images)
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Barcelona star Frenkie De Jong has given his backing to the club signing Marcus Rashford on a permanent deal from Manchester United. Rashford left United last summer to join Barca on a loan running until the end of the campaign, with the deal on the verge of coming to an end.
Rashford expressed a desire to leave United last summer and got his wish with a move to the Camp Nou, but now faces an uncertain future as to what could happen next.
The England international has been heavily linked with a permanent move to Barcelona this summer, with the La Liga giants having a £26million option to sign Rashford on a long-term deal.
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Rashford has enjoyed an impressive spell at Barcelona this season, scoring 14 goals and providing 14 assists across 48 appearances in all competitions. However, there is a chance the club will look elsewhere, with Barca holding off on triggering the clause and exploring other options on the left wing.
The United loanee has seemingly made a good impression on his Barcelona teammates, though, with De Jong outlining why he wants Rashford to remain at the Camp Nou.
“Yes, I think so. In the minutes he's played, he's given us a lot: goals, assists, attacking runs,” De Jong told Sport.
“He's a fast player who poses a real threat to opposing defences. I'd be delighted if he stays with us."
De Jong added: “I saw him arrive full of enthusiasm. He was very happy to be here, and from the first moment, it was clear he wanted to stay. He's tried to adapt as best he can, and I've seen him doing well.”
Barcelona are yet to activate the £26million option to buy in the loan agreement to sign Rashford on a permanent deal from United.
As a result, there is speculation over whether or not the 28-year-old will move to the Spanish giants or return to United this summer, where he would face an uncertain future once again.
A host of English clubs have also been linked with signing Rashford this summer, should a permanent move to Barcelona not materialise.
Aston Villa and Tottenham Hotspur have both been linked with a move for Rashford, while there have also been rumours that Bayern Munich may also have an interest.
Rashford is understood to be favouring a move to Barcelona, but could receive an option to stay in Spain with Real Madrid amid reports Jose Mourinho has his eyes on signing him after agreeing to rejoin the club as manager.
It remains to be seen what the future will hold for Rashford, who will also be hoping to earn a spot in Thomas Tuchel’s England squad for this summer’s World Cup.