Barcelona can sign Marcus Rashford permanently from Manchester United for £26million this summer, but they also have alternatives available to them in the market
Marcus Rashford
Marcus Rashford remains in transfer limbo this summer(Image: NurPhoto, NurPhoto via Getty Images)
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Barcelona are reportedly in talks with Anthony Gordon as a potential alternative to Marcus Rashford.
The Catalan club have expressed their interest after Bayern Munich already made their intentions to sign Gordon clear. Newcastle United are said to have opened discussions with the La Liga winners, who also have an option to sign loanee Rashford permanently for £26million this summer.
Barca are said to have agreed personal terms with Rashford over a permanent move, but are hoping to negotiate a lower fee with United as they eye some key moves in attack, with striker Robert Lewandowski leaving this summer after his contract expires.
Rumours surrounding Gordon, who arrived at Newcastle from Everton for £45million in January 2023, have been widespread for two campaigns. His list of potential destinations stretches beyond just two of Europe's elite clubs, with Liverpool having maintained a long-standing interest.
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Any tussle for Gordon's services could see his valuation – believed to be around £75million – increase substantially. It is unclear whether Barcelona would be willing or able to sign both England internationals.
Gordon has been an integral part of Newcastle's resurgence in recent campaigns. His attacking combination with Alexander Isak, who transferred to Liverpool for £130m last summer, and Jacob Murphy has been a standout feature.
The forward's performances were among the key factors in the journey that enabled the club to end their 70-year wait for major silverware in the 2024-25 Carabao Cup final. He also helped secure qualification for this season's Champions League.
Yet, amid ongoing rumours that he might depart Tyneside, Gordon's impact has diminished this campaign slightly. However, he still registered 17 goals, 10 of which came in the Champions League
That total included one against Barcelona. The strike, though, was ultimately a consolation at St. James' Park after Rashford scored a brace on his return to England.
As speculation intensified with the season drawing to a close, head coach Eddie Howe opted to omit the player from his team following the player's comeback from injury. He explained their need to concentrate on what lies ahead, potentially hinting at future developments.
Howe said: "When you get to this stage of the season, part of what we will be doing we'll be looking to next year, naturally. Anthony's just come back from injury, I think the team has played well in his absence and with a partial view to the future.
He added: "No updates from me. These are discussions that potentially might be happening, but not with me."