‘Making progress’: Fabrizio Romano provides Tuesday night update on €30m Man United deal

Barcelona and Manchester United remain locked in negotiations over the permanent transfer of Marcus Rashford after the forward’s season-long loan in Catalonia, with the €30 million buy-option clause emerging as the final hurdle, according to transfer expert Fabrizio Romano.

Personal terms are advancing smoothly. Romano reports that Barcelona officials, including coach Hansi Flick, have told Rashford “in a very clear way, ‘We want you to stay. We are very happy with you.’” The player, who turns 29 this autumn, has reciprocated the sentiment and negotiations over salary and contract length are “making progress,” with both parties optimistic an agreement can be reached.

The sticking point lies between the clubs. United inserted a €30 million (£26 million) purchase clause when Rashford left Old Trafford last summer; Barcelona, having accepted that valuation a year ago, are now attempting to renegotiate a lower fee. United consider the figure non-negotiable, arguing it already undervalues a player who has reignited his career at Spotify Camp Nou.

Since arriving in Spain, Rashford has contributed 10 goals and 13 assists in 34 appearances. His Champions League form has been especially eye-catching—five goals and four assists in eight group-stage fixtures—while he started in January’s Spanish Super Cup triumph over Real Madrid. Barcelona currently lead La Liga by a single point ahead of their Clásico rivals.

Monday’s sighting of Barça delegates meeting Rashford’s representatives fuelled speculation that a resolution is near, yet United’s stance remains unchanged. Romano underlines the message from Old Trafford: “Pay €30 million, or the player is not joining.”

With Flick eager to retain a forward who has fitted seamlessly into his attacking setup, and Rashford determined to continue in Barcelona, the coming days will reveal whether the Blaugrana can reconcile their finances with United’s asking price or risk losing a rejuvenated star.