Marcus Rashford’s long-anticipated exit from Manchester United has taken a fresh turn, with Barcelona reviving their interest in the 27-year-old forward following failed pursuits of other targets, according to the People’s Pearson.
Sources notified Softfootball that Barcelona president Joan Laporta, head coach Hansi Flick, and agent Pini Zahavi, who now represents Rashford, met this week in the city to discuss transfer business. Rashford’s name was reportedly part of the discussion, along with Frenkie de Jong’s contract renewal.
The England international, who spent the second half of last season on loan at Aston Villa after falling out with manager Ruben Amorim in December, returned to Carrington this summer and now trains separately from the main group.
United’s decision to hand his iconic No. 10 shirt to new signing Matheus Cunha further signals a break from the past and also proves that Rashford isn’t needed anymore at Old Trafford.
Though a permanent deal with Villa failed to materialise, Rashford has made no secret of his desire to join Barcelona, a move he has long considered a dream switch. Turkish giants Fenerbahçe have also been linked, but the Catalan are now firmly back in the picture after failing to land Nico Williams and Luis Díaz.
Barcelona are understood to prefer an initial loan, but United have made it clear they will only sanction a permanent deal. United views Rashford’s sale as a key step in unblocking their transfer window, which has so far stalled due to difficulties in offloading players such as Antony, Jadon Sancho, and Garnacho.
Rashford’s departure would provide vital funds as Amorim looks to reinforce his squad, with United also continuing to negotiate with Brentford for Bryan Mbeumo.
Recall that Softfootball had earlier reported how Rashford sneaked into Man United’s training ground after Amorim left the area. The Portuguese Coach wasn’t impressed with Rashford’s work rate when he gave him opportunities last season and was even more angry at his off-field activities.
That resulted in the England international being sent on loan to Aston Villa in January and asked not to return this summer, as he is not needed at the club.
A report by the Manchester Evening News claimed that following instructions from Amorim, Rashford should not be allowed to join preseason training so he can find a new club.
