Barcelona are closing in on a deal to keep Marcus Rashford at the Camp Nou beyond this season.
Romano Confirms: Man Utd Star Rashford Close to Agreeing Barcelona Transfer
According to transfer expert Fabrizio Romano, the La Liga giants are in very advanced talks with the Manchester United forward over personal terms for a permanent move.
Rashford joined the Catalan club on a season-long loan last summer after falling out of favour under former United boss Ruben Amorim.
The 28-year-old has since rediscovered his best form under manager Hansi Flick, registering 10 goals and 13 assists in 34 appearances.
Speaking on his YouTube channel, Romano revealed that Barcelona are making huge progress in their plans to secure the England international on a full-time basis.
“Barcelona have been making huge progress in recent weeks to keep Marcus Rashford at the club beyond this season,” Romano said.
“Rashford is on loan at Barcelona from Man Utd, but there is a buy option clause of €30 million [£26 million].
Barcelona are in very advanced talks with Rashford and his camp over personal terms for a permanent transfer in the summer.”
While the player is happy in Spain and wants to stay, a financial hurdle remains. The buy clause in the loan agreement requires Barcelona to pay £26 million to trigger the permanent transfer. However, the Spanish side hopes to negotiate a discount.
Romano adds that Manchester United are standing firm. The Red Devils insist that Barcelona must activate the full buy option, or no deal will happen.
“Barcelona would like to reduce the €30 million request while United insist the €30 million buy option must be activated for Rashford or nothing,” Romano confirmed.
United currently hold a strong hand. Rashford’s impressive form in Spain has boosted his market value, with some pundits suggesting he is now worth closer to £45-50 million.
If Barcelona refuse to pay the agreed fee, United could either reintegrate him into the squad or sell him to another elite club for a similar price.
For now, Rashford appears eager to commit to Barcelona, but the ball remains in the Catalan club’s court regarding the transfer fee.
