Barcelona are weighing up whether to sign Marcus Rashford on a permanent deal as the season approaches its conclusion in May
Marcus Rashford
Marcus Rashford's future remains unresolved(Image: Getty Images)
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Barcelona president Joan Laporta has confirmed that the club are assessing the best course of action regarding Marcus Rashford's transfer. The 28‑year‑old's loan from Manchester United expires at the end of the season, though the La Liga side has an option to make the move permanent for £26 million.
Reports have suggested that Barca intend to trigger the clause, despite earlier claims they might try to negotiate a lower fee with United. However, there are now indications that the club may be reconsidering their stance.
Laporta has hinted they could instead look to extend the loan, while stressing that the final decision will rest with sporting director Deco. "We could extend the loan further; it depends on what Deco wants," the 63‑year‑old told Jijantes.
"There are options: exercising part of the purchase option with United, and we'll see about the rest. We're studying the deal."
Manchester United will be hoping they can offload Rashford on a permanent deal rather than another loan, with the England international cast out under former Reds' boss Ruben Amorim.
However, Rashford's future in Catalonia may also hinge on whether Laporta is re‑elected as president. The race for the presidency will be decided on Sunday (March 15), with Laporta going up against Victor Font.
Font has suggested he would dismiss sporting director Deco, a move that could clearly affect Rashford's future.
Laporta staying in charge would likely mean Deco continues as sporting director, so the club's transfer plans would broadly remain unchanged heading into the summer window.
However, Mundo Deportivo claim the England international needs to earn his place in the squad for the final stretch of the season, and adds that he is expected to perform better during the run‑in.
Marcus Rashford and Anthony Gordon
Marcus Rashford in action for Barcelona in the Champions League(Image: PA)
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The report also notes that Barcelona admire Chelsea forward Pedro Neto, who can play on either wing or operate as a false nine.
The next few weeks will be significant for the England international, who has made 38 appearances for the Spanish giants in all competitions and starting 14 times in La Liga.
In total, Rashford has contributed 10 goals and 13 assists.