Barcelona making progress in Marcus Rashford permanent transfer from Manchester United

Barcelona are moving closer to turning Marcus Rashford’s season-long loan into a permanent transfer, with positive discussions held this week between the England forward’s representatives and the club’s sporting director Deco, sources have told The Athletic.

The 28-year-old, who arrived at Camp Nou last August, has contributed 10 goals and 13 assists in 34 appearances across all competitions, convincing the Spanish champions that the €30 million buy option inserted into last summer’s loan agreement with Manchester United represents value.

Under the terms being discussed, Barcelona would pay the fee in three €10 million instalments spread over three years, a structure designed to ease the strain on a salary limit that has already forced the club to employ short-term accounting measures described internally as “economic levers”.

While the deal remains verbal and no formal agreement has been signed, people with knowledge of the negotiations say both parties are confident the transfer can be completed this summer. The outcome could still be influenced by Barcelona’s forthcoming presidential elections, the club’s ongoing financial audit and how the remainder of the 2025-26 campaign unfolds.

Rashford, who will turn 30 in October 2027, has been offered a multi-year contract, though Barcelona’s policy of limiting long-term commitments to players once they pass 30 means the length of any deal is expected to be carefully calibrated. Sources close to the player insist his salary, among the highest in United’s books, will not derail the move.

The potential acquisition of Rashford is not expected to alter Barcelona’s plans to recruit a central striker. Robert Lewandowski, 37, is out of contract in June and his future remains unresolved.

Rashford’s departure from Old Trafford came after a deterioration in relations with the club, who felt the academy graduate’s application did not match his status as one of the top earners. Although former head coach Ruben Amorim fell out of favour with the forward, United’s desire for higher standards predated the Portuguese’s tenure and continued after his January exit.

Barcelona’s hierarchy view Rashford as a proven contributor in LaLiga and believe securing him on a permanent basis would provide continuity on the left flank while the club reshapes its attacking options ahead of next season.