Barcelona are reportedly eyeing a loan move for Manchester United forward Marcus Rashford, providing the England international with a potential exit route from Old Trafford—but only under strict financial and contractual terms.
Barcelona’s Loan Plan
Despite Rashford’s £370,000-a-week wage and a decline in form last season, Barça boss Hansi Flick is said to be a fan of the 27-year-old’s versatility across the frontline. However, the Catalan club’s limited finances—due in part to their expected €53 million outlay to trigger Nico Williams’ release clause—mean a permanent deal is off the table for now.
Barcelona are instead exploring a season-long loan with an option to buy, a compromise that would allow them to bolster their attack without breaching La Liga’s financial fair play restrictions.
Rashford, who has openly expressed interest in playing with Lamine Yamal, could see this as a timely opportunity for a fresh start after enduring a difficult 2024–25 campaign.
Man United’s Position
Manchester United, meanwhile, prefer a permanent sale. The club are under pressure to meet Profit and Sustainability Rules (PSR) and are looking to offload big earners such as Rashford, Jadon Sancho, and Antony this summer.
United are especially keen to shed Rashford’s massive wages and redirect funds toward Erik ten Hag’s squad rebuild. However, due to lack of suitors willing to match both the transfer fee and wages, a loan option is not being ruled out—especially if it includes a buy clause.
Newcastle Also Interested
Newcastle United are another club showing serious interest. Manager Eddie Howe is reportedly keen on adding Rashford to his Champions League squad, though any potential move may depend on retaining Alexander Isak, who is attracting offers from Arsenal and Liverpool.
With the transfer window now open and multiple clubs circling, Rashford’s future remains one of the key storylines to watch this summer. A move to Barcelona could offer a career reboot on a global stage, but it all hinges on whether the clubs can agree on terms that suit their very different financial realities.
