Marcus Rashford will be a new player for FC Barcelona. The English forward has reached a full agreement with the blaugrana club, and only the final details between the two clubs needed to be finalized. Now, the agreement is completely sealed: the Englishman will play at Barça next season.
The footballer, currently on loan at Aston Villa, is not in Manchester United's plans. Nor is he in the plans of the new coach, Rúben Amorim. That's why, for weeks, an exit was being negotiated, Rashford always had his destination clear: Camp Nou.
Rashford accepts a reduced contract
According to sources close to the player's environment, Rashford is willing to significantly lower his salary. He currently earns nearly 400,000 euros per week, a figure completely unaffordable for Barça. But that won't be an obstacle.
The operation has been made possible thanks to the direct intervention of Pini Zahavi. The agent, with great influence in the blaugrana offices, has managed to convince both Rashford and Hansi Flick. The German coach had doubts but has ultimately accepted his signing.
The blaugrana club has agreed on a two-season contract with the English striker. He won't arrive as an undisputed starter, but as a high-level alternative in the rotation. Flick wants a fast, vertical winger with experience: Rashford fits.
The total cost of the operation will be very low for Barça, thanks to a swap that reduces the transfer price. That's where the big surprise comes in.
The bargaining chip after an irregular season
The Uruguayan center-back has had a very complicated campaign. An undisputed starter for years, this season has left many doubts. His performance has dropped, and several important performances have been questioned, especially in the Champions League.
The blaugrana board values his commitment, but they are aware that his market value remains high. United, in need of center-backs, has seen Araújo as a perfect opportunity. Barça has agreed to include him in the exchange to secure Rashford.
Hansi Flick has been clear with the sporting management: Araújo is not part of his project. He prefers to build the defense around Pau Cubarsí, Íñigo Martínez, and Andreas Christensen. Additionally, Deco is already working on defensive signings to complement that line.
With this decision, a cycle at Barça comes to an end. Araújo had been key in previous years, but his inconsistency and physical problems have gradually sidelined him. The defeat against Inter in the Champions League was the straw that broke the camel's back.
The agreement is total: Rashford will join Barça permanently, with a reduced contract. In return, Araújo will join Manchester United, where he will sign for five seasons.
Both clubs consider the agreement beneficial. Rashford will have his desired change of scenery, and Barça will incorporate an offensive profile that fits what Flick is asking for. Meanwhile, Araújo will seek to relaunch his career in the Premier League.