Barcelona reach full agreement for their most obvious blockbuster transfer (with one catch)

Barcelona have struck a full agreement with Manchester United to make Marcus Rashford’s loan switch permanent for €30 million, according to Radio Catalunya’s Tot Costa, but the deal will not be finalised until after the club’s 2026 presidential election and the completion of Financial Fair Play checks.

Rashford arrived at Camp Nou on a temporary basis after struggling for form and stability at Old Trafford, where constant media scrutiny and tactical turmoil limited his impact. Operating primarily as an inverted winger behind Raphinha in Hansi Flick’s high-tempo attack, the England international has rediscovered his finishing instincts and technical sharpness, quickly becoming a fan favourite in La Liga.

Sources close to the negotiations say personal terms have already been settled between the player and the Catalan giants, and the €30 million release clause has been accepted by United, who view the fee as favourable given Rashford’s recent Premier League decline. The Premier League club are expected to channel the funds into rebuilding manager Erik ten Hag’s squad.

The only remaining hurdles are political and bureaucratic. Outgoing president Joan Laporta, widely credited with restoring Barcelona to European prominence, is anticipated to secure re-election, after which the club will formally submit the transfer documentation to La Liga’s financial control body. Barça’s track record of navigating FFP constraints suggests officials are confident of receiving the green light once the electoral dust settles.

For Rashford, the move represents a career renaissance; for Barcelona, a low-risk reinforcement of an already potent front line; and for Manchester United, a necessary parting of ways that benefits all parties.

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