Marcus Rashford is reportedly keen on a summer move to Barcelona after impressing during his loan spell at Aston Villa in the second half of the 2024/25 season.
The 27-year-old was linked with a temporary switch to Barcelona during the winter transfer window, but the move fell through due to the club’s financial struggles. Instead, Rashford joined Villa to revive his career away from Manchester United. Despite his strong form in the Midlands, the Red Devils are expected to sanction his permanent sale this summer.
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Villa are among the clubs interested in signing Rashford for £40m, with Paris Saint-Germain also potentially rekindling their interest. However, according to Spanish publication Sport, Barcelona remains his preferred destination. Rashford’s representatives have reportedly made it clear that he prioritizes a move to the Catalan club above all others.
Although Barcelona’s admiration for Rashford, especially from manager Hansi Flick, is well known, their financial situation and the strong performances of their current forwards make a move unlikely unless circumstances change. The club will likely focus on strengthening other areas of their squad this summer.
BBC Sport adds that Rashford has ruled out a move to London and prefers to join a club playing in next season’s Champions League. This could be a hurdle for Villa, and also excludes Arsenal and Chelsea, leaving Newcastle or Nottingham Forest as potential options, assuming he doesn’t want to join one of United’s rivals, such as Liverpool or Manchester City.
Rashford, who has contributed three goals and five assists under Unai Emery at Villa, is reportedly waiting until mid-June to make a final decision on his future. He has also made it clear he does not want to be part of any swap deal, which could complicate Manchester United’s transfer plans.
With his current salary believed to be around £350,000 per week, Rashford may need to accept a pay cut for his next move.
