Marcus Rashford could be set to move to Barcelona permanently as the club has reportedly communicated their intention to secure the England Star following his loan spell from Manchester United.
The Catalan club’s sporting director, Deco, held discussions with the England international’s representative at Barcelona’s hotel in Jeddah, Saudi Arabia, where the team is preparing for the Spanish Super Cup final against Real Madrid.
The 28-year-old forward arrived at the Camp Nou last July on a season-long arrangement that includes an option to purchase him for approximately €30million at the campaign’s conclusion.
Both the club’s hierarchy and coaching staff have expressed satisfaction with Rashford’s contributions on the pitch and his commitment during training sessions, according to journalist Fabrizio Romano.
Rashford’s form in Spain has been striking, with the winger registering seven goals and 11 assists across 26 matches in all competitions for Hansi Flick’s side.
The La Liga leaders currently hold a four-point advantage over Real Madrid at the summit of the Spanish top flight.
Of Barcelona’s 19 league fixtures this season, Rashford has featured in the starting lineup on 12 occasions, made six substitute appearances, and missed just one match due to illness.
His combination of direct running and tactical discipline has slotted seamlessly into Flick’s system.
Marcus Rashford could be set to move to Barcelona permanently
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Speaking to ESPN in October, Rashford acknowledged the significance of the move: “I’m enjoying this football club and I think for anybody who loves football, Barcelona is one of the key clubs in the history of the game.”
Barcelona have yet to decide whether to activate the €30million purchase clause or negotiate a reduced transfer fee with Manchester United, with the decision hinging on their financial circumstances.
Spanish publication Mundo Deportivo reported earlier this month that the Catalan side may seek to agree a lower sum for the forward.
Should Barcelona proceed with the permanent signing, United could find themselves significantly out of pocket compared to alternative offers.
Marcus Rashford arrived at the Camp Nou last July on a season-long arrangement
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Reports emerged prior to the January transfer window suggesting Paris Saint-Germain had an interest in acquiring Rashford once his loan concluded, with Spanish sources in November indicating the Ligue 1 club had set aside £43million for a potential deal.
This would represent a £17million shortfall for United if Barcelona complete the signing at the agreed option price of approximately £26million.
Rashford has made clear his desire to remain at the Camp Nou beyond this season.
He said last month: “Of course what I want is to stay at Barca. It’s an end goal, but it’s not the reason why I’m training hard and giving it my best. The purpose is to win. Barca is a huge, fantastic club, built to win titles.”
Rashford’s form in Spain has been striking, with the winger registering seven goals and 11 assists across 26 matches in all competitions
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GETTY
The forward elaborated on his experience in Catalonia, explaining that the environment suits his mentality.
Rashford said: “It’s a pressure that you look forward to and a pressure that I want to have whilst I’m playing football.
“If I’m at a club that doesn’t demand these things then it’s more difficult for me to be motivated.”
He added that he felt welcomed from the moment he arrived and remains fully focused on helping the team secure silverware.
