Barcelona has been working for months to strengthen its attack. Hansi Flick requested a specific profile: a fast forward, with goal-scoring ability and capable of playing in several positions. In that context, one of the names most favored by the sporting management was Marcus Rashford. The English international, with a recent history of ups and downs at Manchester United, appeared as a great market opportunity.
Rashford wasn't at his best at Old Trafford, his performance has been very inconsistent, and internal tensions with the coaching staff led him to be loaned to Aston Villa. At Barça, they knew this. Deco worked quietly to study the feasibility of a signing that excited the German coach. In addition, Manchester United's economic situation opened the door to an affordable negotiation if the player gave his approval.
Within the blaugrana environment, they trusted they could entice the forward, offering him a leading role, an ambitious project, and the chance to relaunch his career in a league that had always attracted him. Preliminary contacts took place and there was harmony between the parties. Everything seemed to be on track.
Rashford: no to Barça
However, the plans have changed suddenly, according to reports from German and English media, Marcus Rashford has made a clear decision: he won't sign for Barcelona. The forward would have chosen another European giant to continue his career. Everything indicates that his next destination will be Bayern Munich.
The Bavarian club, in the midst of rebuilding under Vincent Kompany's leadership, is looking for impactful names to strengthen its offensive line. Leroy Sané's departure is finalized. At Allianz Arena, they see Rashford as an ideal replacement, a versatile player with experience on big European nights. In addition, Bayern can offer him something Barça can't: economic stability and a project without financial restrictions.
Munich awaits him
In Munich, Rashford would have a central role, the Bundesliga also represents a competitive environment but less demanding than the Premier League. The possibility of fighting for the Champions League with a strong squad was also key in his decision. Although PSG's interest existed, negotiations with Bayern have progressed more solidly in recent weeks.
This rejection has been received with resignation at Can Barça. Deco considered Rashford one of the star signings of the summer. His versatility fit perfectly with Flick's scheme. But, once again, the lack of room in the Financial Fair Play has been decisive in stopping an exciting operation.
The club insists there will be signings, but they also acknowledge that names like Rashford are currently out of reach. The player has prioritized a project where he can compete at the highest level without the economic uncertainties that still affect Barça. His signing for Bayern is considered imminent, although not official.