FC Barcelona appear to be edging ever closer to sealing a sensational double swoop from Manchester United, with Marcus Rashford at the heart of their plans. Reports emerging from Spain suggest Rashford’s on-loan spell has impressed sufficiently to warrant a permanent move to the Camp Nou as the Catalans aim to bolster their attacking arsenal.
Rashford, having joined Barcelona on loan last summer with an option to purchase for approximately €30 million (£26m), has excelled during his tenure in La Liga. Initially, there were doubts about his role and game time in Spain, particularly given Barcelona’s recent financial straits. However, the English forward has proved his versatility, contributing a commendable 10 goals and 13 assists in 33 appearances across all competitions, ultimately convincing Barcelona chiefs of his long-term value.
This move marks a remarkable twist in Rashford’s career path, as his resurgent form at Barcelona comes after a pivotal loan spell at Aston Villa. It is now understood that the player will be staying in Catalonia beyond this season following the club’s definitive decision to secure his services.
In a recent narrative relayed by Spanish outlet Fichajes, it’s claimed the highway for Rashford’s permanent transfer to Barcelona is clear, following months of speculation. The source states: “The Marcus Rashford saga appears to have reached its conclusion for Barcelona… there’s no reason to wait any longer. The plan is set and points directly to a continuation that will become permanent.”
Additionally, Barcelona seem ‘quietly confident’ in their pursuit of another Old Trafford stalwart, Lisandro Martinez. Caught Offside reports that the Spanish giants have made tentative moves to acquire the sought-after centre-back, valued at €55 million (around £48m), who has been pivotal for United in recent fixtures.
Despite his current contract running until 2027, with an option for United to extend by another year, whispers from Barcelona suggest a lucrative offer could tempt the Red Devils into negotiations. However, sources near Manchester have downplayed any immediate urgency to cash in on Martinez, hinting at the likelihood of a fresh contract offer to secure his future in Manchester.
As Barcelona manoeuvre within the delicate confines of financial prudence, the potential captures of Rashford and possibly Martinez signal a strategic reinforcement push from the club aiming for both immediate impact and long-term stability.