Barcelona forward’s future at club depends on upcoming presidential elections – report

Barcelona’s plan to convert Marcus Rashford’s loan into a permanent €30 million deal could hinge on who wins the club’s presidential election on 15 March, according to a report in The Times relayed by SPORT.

Since arriving on a season-long loan from Manchester United, the 28-year-old England international has contributed ten goals and 13 assists in 34 appearances across all competitions, frequently operating as a rotational option rather than an automatic starter. His output has convinced the outgoing board, led by president Joan Laporta and sporting director Deco, that the pre-agreed purchase clause should be triggered this summer, tying Rashford to the Catalan club through 2028.

Sources close to the negotiations say Rashford has already signalled a willingness to adjust his salary to fit within Barcelona’s strict wage structure, removing a potential obstacle to the transfer. Barring an unexpected injury or dramatic dip in form, the current regime considers the €30 million fee both fair and financially viable.

Yet the election introduces an element of uncertainty. Pre-candidate Víctor Font has publicly stated he would not retain Deco, the architect of Rashford’s arrival, and while Font has expressed support for manager Hansi Flick, the German coach may reconsider his own future if Laporta is not re-elected. The positions of rival candidates Marc Ciria, Xavi Vilajoana and Joan Camprubí on the proposed permanent signing remain undisclosed, leaving Rashford’s long-term status in flux until the new board outlines its sporting strategy.

With fewer than three weeks until voters head to the polls, the striker’s camp is expected to monitor developments closely before committing to life at Camp Nou beyond the current campaign.