Deco is not shying away from the fact that Barcelona are interested in a move for Marcus Rashford this summer.
Like other Manchester United loanees, Marcus Rashford faces an uncertain future at Old Trafford, with the England international likely to be sold to raise funds and cut the wage bill this summer.
The 27-year-old fell out of favour shortly after Ruben Amorim became United’s head coach before failing to work his way back into the team.
Rashford joined Aston Villa on loan in January, but they are not taking up the option to sign him on a permanent deal for £40 million, after missing out on securing a place in the Champions League for consecutive seasons.
It is understood that Rashford dreams of a transfer to Barcelona, if they can operate in the market with La Liga’s restrictive financial controls.
With Hansi Flick in charge, it remains to be seen if Barcelona will make Rashford’s dream a reality, though he would be expected to take a pay cut.
Photo by Cristian Trujillo/Quality Sport Images/Getty Images
Photo by Cristian Trujillo/Quality Sport Images/Getty Images
Deco responds to Marcus Rashford claims
Rashford posted a thank-you message to Aston Villa on his social media last week.
It was clear from that point that Rashford wouldn’t be staying at Villa.
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As a result, Rashford’s links to Barcelona have gained momentum and there is a possibility it could happen this summer.
Barcelona sporting director Deco spoke to BBC Sport this week and insisted Barcelona won’t be selling their best players to make room for new signings. He revealed Barca were in the market for “two, three or four signings” after being linked to Premier League attacking duo Rashford and Luis Diaz at Liverpool.
When asked if Barcelona were trying to sign Rashford or Diaz, Deco said: “We have been focusing on renewing contracts, after that, we’ll discuss players to come.
“Of course, these two players, like you mentioned, they are good but have contracts in their clubs, so we won’t speak because it’s not fair. But when you decide to go to the market, for sure, we find some names. In my opinion, we don’t need to bring many players.”
Deco believes Barcelona already have a strong base going into the 2025/26 campaign, whereas it’s a completely different story at Old Trafford where Amorim is trying to rebuild the squad for future success.
The former Portugal midfielder added: “When I speak with the agents of the players, everyone wants to come or stay. So this is important. The image of the club is still good. We are proud because Barcelona is still such a big club, and the way we are playing football makes players want to come.”
How Rashford compares to Matheus Cunha
United have already made one signing this summer, with Matheus Cunha moving to Old Trafford from Wolves.
Cunha arrives at United to try and solve the problems that exist for United in front of the goal. They existed before Rashford left the club, which means he was unable to provide a fix when called upon.
The Brazilian provided more goals and assists than Rashford throughout the 2024/25 season.
Games Goals Assists
36 17 6
Matheus Cunha stats for Wolves 2024/25
Meanwhile, Rashford’s overall stats count for both halves of the season — at United and Villa.
Games Goals Assists
41 11 9
Marcus Rashford stats for Manchester United and Aston Villa 2024/25