Manchester United forward Marcus Rashford is prepared to make a significant effort to join Barcelona during this summer’s transfer window, according to Sport (page 8).
The England international fell out of favour under manager Ruben Amorim earlier this year. He was loaned out to Aston Villa in February with an option to buy for £40 million.
Rashford made a good impression with 10 goal contributions from 17 appearances, but Unai Emery’s side have ruled out signing the attacker due to his hefty £300,000 per week salary, as per Sport.
The 27-year-old may need to accept a pay cut to depart United. Sport add that he is ready to make a ‘significant effort’ to leave but is ‘only willing to do so if he goes to Barcelona’.
Rashford has already ‘communicated’ his stance to the Catalan giants. The Spanish champions still can’t afford to pay £40m on top of a sizeable weekly salary for the attacker described as ‘unplayable‘ by journalist Henry Winter.
Barcelona are clear about their preference for Rashford. They believe United could lower the price tag or even accept a loan with an option to buy as they have a ‘very serious problem’ with the player.
Rashford likely to move to Barcelona this summer
The Blaugrana were keen on landing the England international on loan last winter, but they could not afford the overall package, including his weekly wages.
They are prepared to try again this summer. Rashford has opened the door as he is reportedly ready to accept a salary reduction to secure his dream move.
Still, a transfer is problematic for the Blaugrana due to their high salary cap and budget restrictions. The club are back to the 1:1 rule, but any big-money transfer could depend on player sales.
Hence, we won’t be surprised if Hansi Flick’s side propose a loan deal for Rashford. In our opinion, United are likely to part ways with him amid his strained relationship with manager Ruben Amorim.
However, the hierarchy should hold out for a loan deal with an obligation to buy. Even if the final price is lower at £30-35m, United would be guaranteed pure profit to balance their books in future.
It does not make sense to offload him temporarily with a buy option. In that way, Barcelona have an advantage and could send him back to United if he does not make a big impression next term.
Rashford will have just two years left on his contract next summer. His market value could dip significantly in case of a poor loan spell. Hence, United must hold out for a loan deal with a buy obligation.
Stats from Transfermarkt.com & Capology.com