Manchester United and Barcelona have quietly opened talks over the future of Marcus Rashford, as both clubs look to find a long-term solution for the England forward.
Rashford is currently on loan in Spain, and his strong performances have forced both sides to sit down and discuss what happens next.
The 27-year-old attacker has enjoyed a fresh start away from Old Trafford and now looks settled at the Camp Nou.
With his loan deal running until the end of the season, questions are growing over whether he will return to Manchester or stay in Spain permanently.
Barcelona Keen to Keep Rashford After Strong Start
Since joining Barcelona last summer, Marcus Rashford has looked like a new player.
He has been given regular game time and clear instructions under head coach Hansi Flick, and the move appears to have worked well for all sides.
Rashford has chipped in with goals and assists in both La Liga and the Champions League.
His pace, movement, and direct style have added something different to Barcelona’s attack. In many games, he has been one of their most dangerous players, often playing on the left side but also moving through the middle when needed.
His numbers have placed him close to Barcelona’s young star Lamine Yamal in terms of creativity this season, which shows just how important he has become.
Because of this impact, Barcelona now wants to keep him beyond the current loan deal.
Talks Held Between Man Utd and Barcelona
According to senior football reporter Ben Jacobs, talks have already taken place this month between Manchester United and Barcelona.
The discussions were aimed at finding a way for Rashford to remain in Spain after the season ends.
Rashford’s current loan deal includes an option for Barcelona to buy him permanently for around £26 million.
However, Barcelona is struggling financially and would prefer not to pay the full amount in one go.
Instead, the Spanish club is exploring other options. One idea on the table is to agree on a lower transfer fee.
Another is a second loan spell, which would include an obligation to buy Rashford later if certain conditions are met.
Manchester United have not yet made a final decision on which route they prefer. But talks continuing at this stage suggest both clubs are open to compromise.
Rashford’s United Wages Are a Big Issue
One of the biggest problems for Manchester United is Rashford’s wages. The forward is earning over £300,000 per week under his Old Trafford contract, which still runs for several more years.
Since taking control of football operations, INEOS has made it clear they want to cut high wages and reduce long-term costs.
Rashford’s salary is one of the highest at the club, and moving him on would free up a large amount of money.
Because of this, United are unlikely to push hard for his return, even if Barcelona decides not to activate the buy option.
From a financial point of view, selling Rashford or keeping him away on loan suits United far better than bringing him back into the squad.
Why Rashford Has No Way Back at Old Trafford
Despite being a local lad and a product of the academy, Rashford’s time at Manchester United now looks over.
His form dropped badly before his loan exit, and relationships behind the scenes became strained.
United is also going through another rebuild phase. New leadership, new targets, and a different football direction mean Rashford no longer fits into long-term plans.
The club is focusing on younger players and those who can fit a clear system.
Even if Rashford were to return, it is hard to see where he would play or how he would fit into the future project.
That is why most signs point towards a permanent exit rather than a comeback.
Rashford Happy in Spain and Open to Staying
From the player’s side, Rashford is believed to be happy in Spain. He is playing regularly, enjoying his football, and feeling trusted again.
The lifestyle, the football culture, and the chance to compete for trophies have all played a part in his revival.
Rashford knows that staying at Barcelona gives him stability and a platform to perform at the highest level.
At this stage of his career, he wants consistency rather than more uncertainty.
More talks are expected before the season ends, and Rashford’s wishes will play a key role in how the situation is resolved.
What Happens Next?
Several outcomes are still possible. Barcelona could agree to pay a reduced fee. A second loan could be arranged with a future obligation to buy.
Or a deal structure could be created that spreads the payments over time.
What seems clear is that Manchester United is ready to move on, and Barcelona wants to keep Rashford.
That makes an agreement likely, even if it takes time.
For United fans, it marks the end of an era. For Rashford, it could be the start of a new chapter away from the club where it all began.
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