Man Utd Reject Barcelona’s Stance on Marcus Rashford as Klopp Rules Out Real Madrid Move

Manchester United have rebuffed Barcelona’s interest in forward Marcus Rashford, insisting the England international is not for sale, according to the latest Paper Round.

The Catalan giants have identified Rashford as a prime target as they look to bolster their attacking options, but United have moved swiftly to dismiss any suggestion that the 26-year-old could be allowed to leave Old Trafford. With the club currently conducting a thorough managerial search following the departure of Erik ten Hag, senior figures are adamant that key assets will not be rushed out before a new permanent boss is appointed.

Sources close to the process indicate that United’s hierarchy will not be hurried in appointing Ten Hag’s successor, prioritising due diligence over speed. The club’s football leadership believes stability in the dugout must come before any major decisions on player trading, effectively slamming the door on Barcelona’s hopes of negotiating a cut-price January deal.

Meanwhile, across the Premier League, Manchester City are set to sanction the exit of highly-rated goalkeeper James Trafford. The 21-year-old, who spent last season on loan at Bolton Wanderers, will now be allowed to leave the Etihad permanently as he seeks regular first-team football.

In another development, Jurgen Klopp has ended speculation linking him with Real Madrid. The former Liverpool manager, who stepped away from Anfield at the end of last season, has no intention of taking over at the Bernabéu, opting instead for a prolonged break from front-line coaching.

With the January window approaching, United’s firm stance on Rashford sets the stage for a potentially tense stand-off, while Barcelona must now explore alternative attacking reinforcements.