According to journalist Matteo Moretto, Barcelona have recently opened discussions about Marcus Rashford, a player who remains highly rated by both sporting director Deco and Hansi Flick.
The English forward was already a topic of interest during the January transfer window, and the possibility of seeing him in a Barcelona shirt is still very much alive.
Rashford has long been attracted by the idea of playing for Barça. He is said to favour a move to the Catalan club over any other, and he features on the club’s shortlist of wingers.
However, while there is mutual interest, the financial side of the deal is proving to be a major obstacle.
High cost holding back Barcelona
Manchester United are asking for a transfer fee of €48 million for Rashford. That price in itself is not out of reach for Barcelona, but the issue lies with the player’s high wages.
Rashford is currently under a lucrative contract that runs until 2028, and his salary would push Barça beyond their current wage cap.
Unless Manchester United agree to subsidise part of the salary or allow a favourable loan deal, the transfer seems unlikely under current financial conditions.
Marcus Rashford wants to play for Barcelona. (Photo by Gareth Copley/Getty Images)
United, for their part, have told Rashford’s camp that he is no longer part of their long-term plans.
The relationship between the club and the player has been tense for several months, and the Premier League side is looking to part ways permanently to avoid paying out the remainder of his hefty contract.
Barça waiting for the right opening
Barcelona know Rashford’s first choice is to play at Camp Nou, and they are watching the situation closely. With United keen to offload him, there is a chance that his price tag or salary demands could come down before the window closes.
Negotiations for Rashford were already active earlier this year, but Barça were forced to hold back due to financial constraints.
Now, with a long summer ahead and various moving pieces in the transfer market, Barcelona remain interested, but only if the numbers make sense.
If United lower their demands or agree to a loan with a purchase option, the operation could gain momentum. Until then, the club will monitor developments, knowing they have a player ready and willing to make the switch.