Marcus Rashford and Barcelona have reached an agreement on his wages, should he complete a permanent move to the club this summer. The forward's salary demands were previously considered a significant obstacle that might have prevented a transfer. Barcelona have an option to sign Rashford at the end of the season for £26million from Manchester United. The Red Devils are maintaining their position on that valuation and Barca have not been put off.
It now seems the Catalan giants have achieved a breakthrough in aligning Rashford's potential earnings with their financial structure. Spanish publication SPORT reports that discussions between Barcelona sporting director, Deco, and Arturo Canales, Rashford's agent, have identified a route towards finalising an agreement. Rashford's present wages are believed to be approximately £13.2m (€15m) following an initial pay cut to facilitate his loan switch.
However, Barcelona have committed to continuing discussions on a framework that satisfies Rashford's representatives and are determined they will activate a permanent summer transfer for the England international.
Barcelona remain confident that Rashford's market value will increase and that, should the player leave, they'll be able to recoup their outlay. It was previously suggested the club would attempt to negotiate a reduced fee with United, but that is no longer being pursued.
Rashford has managed 10 goals and 13 assists across all competitions this season and has established himself as an influential figure, though not always guaranteed a place in the starting XI.
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Earlier in the campaign, the 28-year-old delivered an outstanding double against Newcastle in the Champions League, and he'll likely fancy his chances of repeating that feat after Barcelona were paired with the Magpies in the competition's draw. Manager Hansi Flick remains cautious, though.
"Every match is important," he said. "I'm not celebrating not facing PSG; we have to respect our opponents. Everyone wants to reach the final, and Newcastle also wants to win the Champions League. All opponents are tough. Newcastle United have a fantastic team, and we saw that when we were there."
Rashford may encounter increased competition for a starting berth next season with Barcelona preparing to rival Arsenal for Julian Alvarez's services from Atletico Madrid. The 26-year-old Alvarez has become a target amid suggestions that Barcelona view the Argentine as the natural successor to Robert Lewandowski, whose deal runs out in June.