Rashford transfer plan can green light Man Utd’s first summer deal | Football | Sport
Marcus Rashford has no plans to rejoin Manchester United following his Barcelona loan stint, according to reports. The 28-year-old moved to the Catalan side during the summer after losing his place at Old Trafford.
Hansi Flick’s squad secured Rashford on a season-long loan arrangement, with an option to make the transfer permanent for a €30million (£26m) sum. The England international has been involved in 22 goals across 32 appearances, with his performances winning over his new employers.
Previous claims suggested Barcelona were reluctant to pay the agreed sum for Rashford, instead proposing United accept a reduced figure or an alternative loan deal with a mandatory purchase at the conclusion of the 2026/27 campaign. A recent report from Spanish publication Marca appeared to dismiss those suggestions, indicating the club is now prepared to trigger the clause and secure him permanently for £26m. Encouragingly for all concerned, Rashford is equally enthusiastic about the switch.
The Three Lions’ opening match in the competition falls on June 17 against Croatia, a fortnight following Barcelona’s current campaign conclusion. Despite speculation that Michael Carrick might try to convince him to rejoin United should he secure the role permanently, Rashford’s ambitions remain focused on Spain.
Even should his Nou Camp stint collapse, Rashford is believed to favour a transfer to another outfit rather than reviving his Old Trafford career. If circumstances align favourably, United’s initial summer acquisition should be Rashford.
His permanent departure is expected to be amongst numerous transactions finalised at the campaign’s end. United have already announced Casemiro’s exit upon his contract’s expiration, with several current stars attracting attention.
Manuel Ugarte, Joshua Zirkzee and Kobbie Mainoo were all connected with January departures, though Ruben Amorim’s exit considerably enhanced the latter’s standing within the United setup. The England midfielder has featured in all three of Carrick’s matches since his club return, with demands for his Three Lions inclusion gaining momentum.
United are presently competing for Champions League qualification, with a top-five finish boosting their summer spending power. Over £200m was invested in squad reinforcement last summer, despite the club lacking European competition.
Rashford’s departure, along with potential exits for Ugarte and Zirkzee, will provide additional flexibility in the transfer window. United’s recruitment team are anticipated to focus on securing a central midfielder, a centre-forward and a left winger before the 2026/27 season kicks off.
