Barcelona have made direct contact with Marcus Rashford’s camp as they try to close a move from Manchester United, according to TEAMtalk. The 28‑year‑old striker, who spent last season on loan at Aston Villa, looks set to leave Old Trafford.
Rashford’s position at United has become increasingly strained. He’s reportedly not part of Ruben Amorim’s plans it started after his spell in Birmingham and worsened when he didn’t rejoin the squad full-time.
He’s been training alone at United’s training ground, Carrington, and his iconic No. 10 shirt has already been reassigned to Matheus Cunha. That’s a pretty clear signal: United are ready for him to go.
Even the manager has gone further. Amorim decided that Rashford and four other players Alejandro Garnacho, Jadon Sancho, Antony, and Tyrell Malacia can only train after first-team sessions end at 5 p.m. United hope to clear them out to free up room and funds.
Barcelona’s Plan
Barcelona want to bring Rashford to Camp Nou, but they prefer a loan deal rather than a straight purchase. They see this as a low-risk move.
They can test him out, and a loan would let them limit upfront costs given their financial constraints.
A loan-with-option-to-buy could delay or reduce the fee, and United might even continue paying part of his wages like they did during his Villa loan. Reports say Barcelona are firm: "loan or nothing."
Inside Barcelona, there’s strong support for the move. Hansi Flick, the manager, has given his clear backing, and Sky Germany reports he's “prepared to go all in.”
Players of Barcelona have even hinted on social media, and Rashford himself followed fellow Barça players, signaling his interest.
Yet there’s a catch. Barcelona’s sporting director Deco has reservations. He reportedly doesn’t want to spend around €48 million on a player who’s been inconsistent. Deco thinks a loan deal is smarter. He sees Rashford as a player with talent, but with risk attached unless they can test him first.
Manchester United’s Stance
United value Rashford at around £40 million–£48 million (€46–€50 million). They’re keen to sell, partly to fund moves like Matheus Cunha (who arrived for £62.5 million) and target Brentford’s Bryan Mbeumo.
But United are pushing for a permanent deal. They think letting him go on loan again, especially if it’s at a reduced cost, isn’t ideal. Instead, they want to recover the transfer fee to balance the books.
Still, discussions are taking place. TEAMtalk confirms Rashford and his camp are set to meet club officials this week for final talks about the exit terms whether it’ll be a loan or permanent deal.
As one source told them: “There is a bit of an uneasy truce right now.” It comes down to who blinks first: Barcelona on fees, or United on structure.
Rashford’s Perspective
From Rashford’s side, he’s clear on one thing: he wants Europe’s top competition. He publicly rejected a big-money offer from a Saudi Pro League club reportedly around £34 million per year and only wants to play in Europe, with Barcelona as his top choice.
He’s also shown signs of flexibility. Some reports say he’s willing to take a pay cut and delay big winnings to make the deal happen. He’s even engaged with Barcelona teammates online. If Barca can figure the structure, he’s ready to go.
At Villa last season, he scored four goals and had six assists in 17 games. That makes him relevant again. What matters most to him now is earning his way back into the England squad for the 2026 World Cup. That’s what’s keeping him focused.
Other Clubs Watching
It’s not just Barcelona in the race. Bayern Munich, Juventus, and Fenerbahce have shown interest. Juventus reportedly view him as a number one striker target, while Mourinho’s Fenerbahce could bring a reunion. Bayern are keeping tabs after missing out on Luis DÃaz.
But Rashford’s kept firm: his dream is Barcelona. He’s even ignored money from Saudi, indicating he sees his future in Europe.
So, What’s Next?
A few things are starting to take shape. First off, Rashford is expected to sit down with Manchester United this week to figure out his future. That meeting will be key. It’ll cover everything from whether United are open to letting him leave on loan or if they’re still holding out for a full transfer.
Wages will also be a big part of the discussion especially if United are expected to cover some of his salary again like they did during his Villa loan.
Over in Spain, Barcelona are still working things out internally. Manager Hansi Flick is pushing for the move, but not everyone at the club is sold just yet. Deco, who handles transfers at Barcelona, isn’t totally convinced yet.
He’s being careful, mostly because the club still isn’t in a strong place financially. From what’s being said behind the scenes, they’ll only seriously consider going for Rashford if the deal makes sense financially most likely something like a loan they can afford without stretching things.
No other clubs have made a move so far, but a few are watching closely. Juventus, Bayern, and Fenerbahce are all watching from the sidelines. If the talks between United and Barcelona hit a wall, any one of them could step in and make a move.
As for Rashford himself, he’s staying ready. He’s still training on his own at Carrington, working to stay in top shape. Rashford’s open to adjusting things on his end too.
He doesn't cares about the money so he's ready to earn less if that’s what gets him back into real European competition. He wants to feel like himself again on the pitch and prove he still belongs in that England lineup come 2026.
But that next step? It depends on the outcome of the talks between United and Barça. If both sides can agree on the terms, there’s a good chance the deal gets wrapped up before pre-season gets into full swing. If not, Rashford might be forced to look elsewhere or wait even longer.
If It Happens
If Barcelona get a loan deal done, they’d be picking up a player with real pace, a strong track record in the Premier League, and experience in European football.
For United, it would free up space in their squad and budget without fully cutting ties at least for now. But if the deal falls through, United may have to turn to other clubs, and Rashford might need to adjust his plans quickly. Time is running out as pre-season ramps up.
Quotes from sources
Fabrizio Romano (via Football 365):
“Marcus Rashford would be very keen on a move to Barcelona… he’s basically waiting for a Barca move.”
TEAMtalk:
“There is a bit of an uneasy truce at the moment, with Marcus working on his fitness at Carrington…”
Mundo Deportivo (via FootballToday):
“Rashford has rejected a hugely lucrative offer from an unnamed Saudi Pro League club… he only wants to join Barcelona.”
Insight for fans
What could Rashford bring to Barca?
His speed, ability to break lines, and knack for scoring could add a new angle to Hansi Flick’s attack. He could either play behind a striker or down the left wing.
Analysts point out his movement and experience would fit well with Barça’s young squad and tactical style.
What’s in it for United?
They need to cash in. They’ve brought Cunha in, MGM is next, and Amorim wants a clean break. If Rashford goes, it’s a message that the project has moved to a new phase.
Why a loan makes sense for Barcelona:
Their budget is tight, they’re monitoring players like DÃaz and Williams, and they want to avoid overcommitting.
A loan gives them time to judge Rashford’s performance and fitness especially after his up-and-down form last year.
Wanderlustsport Take
Barcelona are in serious talks with Rashford’s camp. They prefer a loan but might agree to a permanent move if things go smoothly.
United want a proper fee but could accept a loan under the right conditions. Rashford isn’t in this for the money. He’s aiming to play at the top again, and for him, Barcelona is the dream destination.
The upcoming meeting with United could be the moment that decides which way things go. Things could move fast once the talks take place one way or the other.
If everyone finds common ground, Rashford could be wearing Barça colors before the next friendly. If not, things might drag or head in a totally different direction.