Barcelona are no longer interested in signing Marcus Rashford permanently
The England international, who is currently in the Three Lions squad and is preparing for the World Cup that starts tomorrow, will return to Manchester United after the championship. Then either a future at Old Trafford awaits under Michael Carrick – or a new club search.
Read: Tottenham clean up for De Zerbi – sends midfielder out of club
The first match is between Mexico and South Africa at the Estadio Azteca.
Rashford joined Barcelona on a season-long loan last summer. The league club had an option to make the transfer permanent for 30 million euros – a clause that applies until June 15. The striker impressed with 14 goals and 11 assists in 49 appearances in all competitions, and he helped Hansi Flick’s side defend their league title.
But when Barcelona also put €70 million on the table for compatriot Anthony Gordon – who plays in exactly the same position as a left winger/striker – it confirmed that the Blaugrana had been looking for alternatives. Although a deal for Rashford was still possible at the time, Marca claims that the door is now completely closed for the 28-year-old.
Rashford impressed at Barcelona – but can’t stay
The news comes as a heavy blow to the United academy product, who had hoped to extend his stay in Spain.
That Barcelona prefer Gordon – a player who largely disappointed in a difficult season for Newcastle – may seem surprising. However, Marca suggests that Gordon’s greater work capacity and defensive prowess are crucial to Flick’s assessment. Gordon is also younger (25 years old) and has lower salary demands.
What happens now to Marcus Rashford?
The situation puts Rashford in a tricky position. His career at United seems to be over after a strained relationship with Carrick’s predecessor, Rúben Amorim. At the same time, there are few clubs that can match his salary.
Bayern Munich, who were also linked with Gordon, have barely been mentioned as a possibility. So has Aston Villa, where Rashford was on loan before moving to Barcelona.
Barcelona, meanwhile, continue to prioritise other strikers, although they could be priced out by a possible transfer for Julián Álvarez. Real Madrid had a bid of €150 million for the Argentine rejected last night – and Atlético Madrid responded with a series of jabs at their neighbours.
Read on The Health Manager: These very common foods can help the elderly stay strong for longer
