Barcelona intend to be very busy during this summer’s transfer window, which will be the first of Joan Laporta’s fourth term as president. There are plans to sign a new centre-back and striker, but first, a decision will need to be made on whether Marcus Rashford is signed permanently, or returns to Manchester United.
Rashford joined Barcelona on loan last summer after the Catalans missed out on Nico Williams. He has been a revelation at times, and his contribution is one of the reasons why punters are flocking to Angliabet to back Hansi Flick’s side to win their first Champions League title in 11 years. As a squad player, he’s amassed 10 goals and 10 assists across all competitions, which is an impressive return considering he’s played second-fiddle to Raphinha for much of the season.
Because of this form, Barcelona have already started working on signing Rashford permanently. They have a buy option as part of last summer’s deal with Man United, but while they consider whether to proceed with paying it, they have identified numerous alternatives to the England international, whose wage demands could cause problems during negotiations.
In the event that Barcelona do not return to La Liga’s 1:1 rule, their salary limit will remain far below the desired amount. This will make it tricky to register Rashford, which is why arrangements are being made to move for players whose wages will cause no problems for the Catalan club.
Although Rashford has been very good when called upon this season, it is understand that Barcelona officials will have doubts about his continuity. Both he and Raphinha are 28, so there would need to plans to bring in a long-term solution in the coming years – and rather than wait, the La Liga leaders could do so now, which would leave Rashford out in the cold.
It is a tricky decision facing Barcelona. If a deal can be agreed for Rashford to take a major pay cut, then it would make sense for that to be finalised over the summer, especially as it could open the door for a younger profile to arrive, similar to Roony Bardghji on the opposite flank.
Ultimately, Barcelona’s decision could be made for them. If they do not return to La Liga’s 1:1 rule before Rashford’s loan deal expires, there would be a considerable chance that he does not end up remaining in Catalonia, and instead, returns to Man United.
