The forward has rediscovered his enjoyment of football in Spain after a difficult spell under former Manchester United manager Ruben Amorim, who made his feelings about Rashford clear
Marcus Rashford
Marcus Rashford has rediscovered his form at Barcelona(Image: AP)
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Manchester United have reportedly identified five potential replacements for Marcus Rashford ahead of next season. The England international appears set to end his Old Trafford career after joining Barcelona on loan earlier this year, following a difficult stint under Ruben Amorim.
The Spanish champions can make the move permanent for £26million in the summer, and there are strong suggestions the clause will be activated, according to the latest reports. Rashford has already made clear his desire to stay in Spain after settling quickly.
"It’s been amazing. I feel welcome, I feel at home," he said late last year. "I’ve just been enjoying every step of the way. Learning the language, learning the culture - it's all enjoyable for me. It's something I've wanted to do for a long time, and this is the perfect opportunity."
He will, however, be required to take a substantial salary reduction due to the club's reported financial issues.
According to an update shared by Spanish outlet Sport, Rashford's performances in Spain have 'fully convinced' the club's board, with the forward becoming an important part of Hansi Flick's attack. The 28‑year‑old has scored 10 goals and provided 13 assists in 37 games since joining the club last summer.
Set to bid farewell to their academy product, United are assessing alternative options, and the report outlines several players under consideration.
With a focus on young talent, United are said to have RB Leipzig's Yan Diomande on their shortlist, along with Jesus Rodriguez, who is enjoying an excellent season with Como 1907. Strasbourg winger Martial Godo is also mentioned as a possibility.
United are also said to be monitoring Everton's Iliman Ndiaye, who they believe can offer one‑v‑one threat as well as valuable Premier League experience. However, the report states that Paris Saint‑Germain forward Bradley Barcola is the most prominent name on the list.
Bradley Barcola
Bradley Barcola is said to feature on Man United's shortlist(Image: Getty Images)
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The 23‑year‑old is considered one of the most promising young talents in European football and has already won several titles at the Parc des Princes.
Qualifying for European football will help attract younger talent, and United are on course to finish in those places - currently sitting third in the Premier League.
Rashford has already claimed his first trophy as a Barca player after their 3-2 win over Real Madrid in the Spanish Super Cup final. He could add another silverware to his collection, with the Blaugrana currently top of La Liga and four points clear of Madrid.