Barcelona remain determined to sign Marcus Rashford despite allowing their option to buy the Manchester United forward to expire earlier this summer.
The England international enjoyed a successful loan spell at the Camp Nou, scoring 14 goals and providing 14 assists in 49 appearances as Barcelona won another La Liga title. However, the Spanish champions declined to activate the £26 million purchase clause included in the agreement.
Despite that decision, Barcelona have not abandoned their pursuit. Reports suggest the Catalan club are prepared to wait until later in the transfer window in the hope that Manchester United lower their demands or become more flexible over a deal structure.
Rashford is understood to remain keen on a return to Barcelona after establishing himself as a popular figure during his season in Spain. The 28-year-old is currently with England at the World Cup, where he has already made an impact after coming off the bench against Croatia.
Manchester United, meanwhile, are believed to be seeking around £40 million for a permanent sale. Barcelona consider that valuation too high and reportedly believe a fee closer to £25-30 million would be more appropriate. Discussions have also centred on the possibility of another loan move that would include an obligation or option to buy at a later date.
United are eager to secure a permanent departure as they continue reshaping their squad and reducing their wage bill. Reports indicate the club would prefer a straightforward sale rather than another temporary arrangement.
Barcelona’s ability to complete a deal may depend on player sales and financial room within their squad. The club are expected to offload several players before making further significant additions.
Interest in Rashford is not limited to Spain. Tottenham Hotspur, Bayern Munich and Aston Villa have all been linked with the forward, although no rival club has yet matched Manchester United’s asking price.
With Barcelona prepared to play the long game and Rashford still favouring a return to Spain, his future is likely to remain one of the most closely watched transfer stories of the summer.
