Manchester United has decided that Marcus Rashford will not be part of the new project led by Rubén Amorim. The Portuguese coach doesn't see the English striker as a useful piece and has authorized his departure this summer. The club has already set the transfer price at £40 million (46 million euros).
That figure matches the purchase option that Aston Villa had, the team where he played on loan this season. However, his performance wasn't convincing enough to trigger that clause, so he will return to Old Trafford. Now, the goal is to find him a destination before the start of preseason.
Barça positions itself in the race
One of the clubs that has followed his situation most closely is FC Barcelona, which values his versatile attacking profile. Hansi Flick sees Rashford as a perfect complement to strengthen the left wing and the center of the attack. His arrival would allow Robert Lewandowski to be rotated and increase competitiveness in the attacking front.
The blaugrana sporting management considers the transfer cost manageable if a deferred payment formula can be achieved. In addition, his age—26 years old—fits the type of footballer the club wants to bring in for this new cycle. Barça believes that, in a favorable environment, Rashford can regain his best form and perform at the highest level.
According to sources close to the negotiations, Barça has already defined the terms of a possible contract for Rashford. The forward would sign for four seasons, until June 2029, with an initial net salary of 6M. That figure would grow progressively based on individual objectives, titles, and minutes played during the campaign.
The club has also included a 400M euro release clause to secure the player from day one. The salary is adjusted to the new wage structure that aims to keep costs down without losing appeal for signings. Rashford would be willing to lower his salary compared to the Premier League if he gets minutes and a leading role.
A strategic signing for Flick
Flick especially values the player's ability to move across the entire attacking front with speed and penetration. He can play as a winger, second striker, or attacking reference, adapting to different tactical schemes with ease. His experience at the European elite level is also a plus in the blaugrana locker room.
The German coach believes that Barça needs more attacking resources to compete on all fronts next season. Rashford, despite his inconsistent year, remains a high-profile name with clear room for improvement. The club is already working to free up wage bill space to carry out this type of move.
Beyond Barça's interest, there are other clubs that have inquired about his situation in recent weeks. Bayern Munich and PSG have also contacted his camp to explore a possible negotiation. However, Rashford prefers LaLiga and the idea of playing in a project like Camp Nou's.
In the coming days, the player is expected to make a final decision about his immediate future. Barça has already done their part: they know the price, have the offer ready, and are waiting for the response. Everything is ready for Marcus Rashford to wear the blaugrana jersey... if he wants to.