I won't go on strike to force Barcelona move - Marcus Rashford ready to return to Old Trafford

Manchester United have reportedly informed Barcelona that they will not reduce their asking price for forward Marcus Rashford this summer, as the Catalan giants continue their pursuit of the England international.

Rashford, who spent the latter half of last season on loan at Aston Villa, is widely expected to leave Old Trafford permanently in the coming weeks.

Aston Villa held a £40 million (€47.5 million) option to make Rashford's loan permanent, but they are not anticipated to activate it.

A return to United seems highly unlikely, setting the stage for the 27-year-old to seek new pastures. Barcelona have long admired Rashford and have openly expressed their interest in a summer transfer.

However, United's financial demands are proving to be a stumbling block for cash-strapped Barcelona.

The Spanish club is reportedly exploring alternatives if they fail to convince the Red Devils to lower their stance, with a loan move being Barcelona's preferred option.

According to Spanish outlet SPORT, Manchester United are unwilling to budge from their reported €40 million (£33.7 million) valuation for Rashford.

So far, Barcelona have not met this figure, having reportedly proposed a loan with an option to buy, and even offering a mandatory purchase clause at a lower fee.

However, United have shown no willingness to negotiate on these terms.

Adding another layer to the saga, Sky Sports Switzerland suggests Barcelona are looking to "accelerate" their efforts to sign Rashford, with their latest report even hinting at a potential asking price as low as €35 million (£29.5 million).

For his part, Rashford is not willing to lower his salary demands to facilitate a move to Camp Nou, but progress has been slow due to the impasse in negotiations with Manchester United.