The saga of Marcus Rashford keeps making headlines this summer. The Manchester United forward has become one of the main figures in the transfer market. While several clubs in Europe are eyeing him, the striker is clear about one thing: his only possible destination is FC Barcelona.
Juventus enters the bidding, but Rashford doesn't give in
In recent weeks, Juventus has intensified its interest in Rashford. The "bianconeri" have tried to entice the player with a financial and sporting proposal for the upcoming 2025/26 season. However, the Englishman isn't willing to listen to any offers except from Barça.
Meanwhile, Manchester United is looking to finalize Rashford's departure as soon as possible to prevent the tension from continuing to grow. The player, who has been separated from the first team, is training apart from the group and without contact with the coaching staff. This has only increased speculation and the pressure to solve his future.
A complicated salary and a tense negotiation
The main obstacle for Rashford to leave Old Trafford is the financial aspect. United is asking for €40 million ($40 million) for Rashford, a high figure for the market and for a player who earns about €20 million ($20 million) a year.
Juventus would be willing to pay that amount, as long as Rashford accepts a pay cut. But the footballer doesn't want to make that effort for them. Barcelona only wants a loan without a mandatory purchase option, an option Rashford accepts, even with a salary reduction.
Barça's patience and the wait for Luis Díaz
Barcelona hasn't yet made a formal offer for Rashford. The reason? The blaugrana club keeps hoping to sign Luis Díaz first, the player Deco, the sporting director, most wants to strengthen the left wing.
But the deal with Liverpool is on hold. The "reds" are asking for at least €80 million ($80 million) for the Colombian, a very high figure for the club's finances. In addition, Díaz is in contact with Bayern Munich, another strong rival in this battle.
Meanwhile, Rashford and his camp are waiting patiently. His brother and agent have already met with the blaugrana directors to express his desire to play for Barça. The striker is in no hurry and is willing to wait for the club to make clear moves to secure his signing.
The dream of wearing the blaugrana jersey alongside Lamine Yamal
More than the financial aspect, Rashford wants to play for Barça for a sentimental reason: to be alongside Lamine Yamal, the club's young star.
The idea of sharing a locker room and playing alongside an emerging talent like Yamal excites him and is an important incentive for the Englishman. In a market where negotiations overlap and plans change quickly, Rashford keeps alive the dream of arriving at Camp Nou.