Barcelona may re-enter the race to sign long-time target and Manchester United star Marcus Rashford this summer.
Rashford has impressed during his six-month loan spell at Aston Villa, as Unai Emery’s team continues its battle for a Champions League spot. Emery has stated that he will wait until the end of the season to decide whether to keep the English forward.
However, both Villa and Barcelona remain uncertain about making a concrete move, as the 27-year-old approaches a pivotal moment in his career this summer.
According to reports from the Daily Mail, Manchester United has clarified that there is no agreement in place giving Aston Villa priority to buy Rashford, and the asking price for him is £40 million. This fee matches Villa’s purchase option, but it is not exclusive, meaning other clubs can also enter the race.
Rashford is under contract with Manchester United until 2028 and is expected to return for pre-season training in June, with his future still unclear.
Barcelona has maintained interest in Rashford, but any move will depend on financial viability. The Catalans aim to lower the fee and negotiate a deal that includes resolving his contract situation with United.
Currently, Aston Villa is covering around 75% of his wages as part of the loan agreement, with the rest paid by United. If Rashford reaches an agreement with another club, it would likely involve a pay cut, as his current salary is around £315,000 per week.
Manchester United might be forced to pay millions in compensation in the event of a departure, while both Barcelona and Villa seek to take advantage of the situation to strike a deal at a reduced price. La Blaugrana is determined not to breach La Liga’s financial regulations again in 2025.
