Marcus Rashford, 27-year-old international forward, has taken a firm step in search of a new destination. Amid a challenging season at Manchester United, the striker has decided to change his representative. His goal is clear: leave the English club as soon as possible.
The new agent chosen is not just any name. Rashford has entrusted himself to an intermediary with strong influence in FC Barcelona's offices. A move that is not coincidental and points in a very specific direction.
Barça, with problems on the left wing
FC Barcelona has been evaluating for months how to strengthen the left winger position. Hansi Flick's trust in Ansu Fati has been waning as the matches go by. The lack of consistency from the homegrown player has opened a significant gap in the squad.
Although no one doubts his talent, Fati has not managed to convince the coaching staff. He has a contract until 2027, but everything indicates that he will seek minutes away from Camp Nou. The departure would leave a position open that Rashford would be willing to fill.
Rashford is going through a key moment and needs a change of scenery to recover his best version. In this context, Barça appears as an ideal destination to relaunch himself at the highest level. Moreover, the player believes that his style fits perfectly with Flick's system.
The idea of joining a growing project with European ambition especially motivates him. The possibility of sharing a locker room with players like Lewandowski or Pedri also adds to it. But it's not just a sporting matter: there's strategy behind it.
Pini Zahavi's card
The most significant step Rashford has taken is trusting agent Pini Zahavi. The Israeli is known for his excellent relationship with Joan Laporta and his ties with the Barça environment. He is also the representative of figures like Flick and Lewandowski.
Zahavi has started to make moves and an initial informal contact has already taken place. The English forward was offered to the club last winter, but no agreement was reached. This time, the scenario could be more favorable.
Rashford would be willing to significantly reduce his salary to facilitate the operation. His contract with Manchester United ends in 2028, but his priority is to leave this summer. Barça, with its budgetary limitations, only considers an initial loan.
A loan would allow the Catalan club to incorporate talent without breaking the financial balance. Moreover, the player's camp views this formula favorably. Rashford is currently on loan to Aston Villa, but he sees Barça as his true step up in quality.
Initial talks underway
The parties have initiated discreet contacts to explore the feasibility of the operation. For now, there are no official negotiations, but the interest is mutual. Barça keeps prudence, knowing that the economic situation demands maximum caution.
Rashford, meanwhile, has made it clear that his priority is to land in Barcelona. He trusts that his new agent can unlock the agreement. Although there is still much to define, Laporta has already taken note of the gesture.