Rashford Nears Barcelona Loan Move as United Greenlight Exit

Marcus Rashford is closing in on a loan move to Barcelona after Manchester United gave the green light for a deal that includes an option to buy the 27-year-old next summer according to the Guardian. 

Photo by Carl Recine/Getty Images

The Spanish giants have made their approach through intermediaries, with new head coach Hansi Flick backing the move. Rashford has already held talks with Flick, while his brother and agent, Dwaine Maynard, met with Barca officials in Catalonia last month.

The England forward is one of several players told they're no longer part of Ruben Amorim's plans at United. He has been training alone—either in a private gym in Salford or at United's Carrington base after the main squad has left.

United reportedly value Rashford at £40 million, but with no firm offers for a permanent move and the player unwilling to take a pay cut, Barcelona's loan offer—with a future option to buy—could work for both sides. Rashford is said to be prioritising a club in the Champions League over a move to the Saudi Pro League.

Barcelona are looking to add more attacking options this summer. Despite having Lamine Yamal and Raphinha, Flick wants more depth and versatility. 

The club had been interested in Liverpool's Luis Díaz but were told he's not for sale. They also explored a deal for Athletic Club's Nico Williams before he signed a long-term extension.

Rashford, who joined United as a child, has made 426 appearances and scored 138 goals for the club. He spent the second half of last season on loan at Aston Villa and hasn't featured since being dropped for the Manchester derby last December.

 Speaking later that month, he said he was open to a new challenge away from Old Trafford.