Marcus Rashford twist as Barcelona 'pull out of £26m Man Utd transfer'
Barcelona are reportedly keen to secure Marcus Rashford on a second loan deal after stalling on a permanent move. The La Liga leaders are currently reluctant to activate his £26million clause and another temporary switch remains a possibility if they are unable to reduce United's valuation.
Rashford has been plying his trade away from Old Trafford since January 2025, having initially moved to Aston Villa on loan. The Premier League club declined to exercise their option to make the deal permanent, clearing the path for him to join the Spanish heavyweights.
The 28-year-old has been in excellent form for the Catalan outfit at the top of the table, while he played a role in their ultimately unsuccessful Champions League campaign before they crashed out to city rivals Atletico Madrid in the last eight.
There have been contradictory reports concerning Rashford and a permanent switch to Catalonia. At first, it was claimed that Barcelona were receptive and eager to finalise a deal for the England international.
However, in recent weeks, it has been indicated that Hansi Flick's outfit have hesitated over the £26million purchase option and are attempting to negotiate down the price, something that United are unwilling to entertain.
Now, Sky Sports Germany claim that Barcelona are prepared to bring Rashford in on loan once more next campaign as they have no intention of meeting the Premier League side's asking price.
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Rashford is currently in the final 18 months of his contract at Old Trafford, and this summer represents the last chance for United to make a financial return on the forward.
Having amassed 297 Premier League appearances, Rashford has proven himself a valuable asset to United after progressing through and graduating from their academy.
However, following his fall from grace under Ruben Amorim, he has enjoyed a period away from the intensity surrounding his boyhood club.
Were he to complete a second loan stint with Barcelona, it would extend beyond his existing United deal, meaning he would be a free agent at the end of next season.
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Flick is said to be eager to continue his working relationship with Rashford as the pair edge closer to claiming major silverware together.
Rashford's 13th goal of the season helped Barcelona to a 2-0 victory away at Getafe, moving them 11 points clear of nearest rivals Real Madrid.