Barcelona set to rescue Rashford from Manchester United hell

Marcus Rashford’s time at Manchester United appears to be drawing to a close as Barcelona close in on a deal to sign the England forward.

Talks are at an advanced stage, with both clubs aligned on a loan move that includes an option to buy. Rashford has given his approval, and all parties are finalising terms.

Barcelona’s offer, delivered through intermediaries, would allow them to bring in Rashford on an initial loan, an appealing structure for a club still managing financial constraints.

The Catalan giants are looking to reinforce their options on the wings and in the attacking third after a thin end to the 2024–25 season. Head coach Hansi Flick is a strong advocate of the deal, having already spoken to Rashford directly.

He sees the 27-year-old as a key figure in his 4-3-3 system, especially after failed moves for Nico Williams and Luis Díaz.

Sporting director Deco has kept close tabs on Rashford for months, and Rashford’s agent and brother, Dwaine Maynard, has already held talks in Barcelona. The move is seen as a cost-effective solution to add proven top-level experience and versatility in the final third.

Rashford, who earns over £325,000 per week, has found himself sidelined under Ruben Amorim and was loaned to Aston Villa last winter.

He managed four goals in 17 appearances before a hamstring injury ended his season early. Since December, he has not played for United and was omitted from England’s latest squad.

The forward has publicly hinted he is ready for a “new challenge,” and despite reporting back for pre-season, he has not trained with the main squad.

With 138 goals in 426 appearances for United, his legacy remains significant, but the player now appears determined to rebuild elsewhere.