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Barcelona are preparing further talks with Manchester United over a permanent deal for Marcus Rashford after agreeing personal terms with the England striker.
Hansi Flick sees Rashford as a key part of his attacking plans, but United remain firm on his €30m (£26m) valuation.
Barcelona intensify pursuit of Rashford
The Blaugrana are stepping up their efforts to permanently sign Rashford following his productive loan spell in Spain, and according to talkSPORTBarça plans new transfer negotiations with the Red Devils before the 2026 World Cup.
The England international scored 14 goals and provided 14 assists in 49 appearances, convincing Hansi Flick that he should remain part of the club’s long-term attacking plan.
The Catalan club have reportedly agreed personal terms with Rashford, who is ready to accept a revised contract structure and reduced overall salary to facilitate the transfer.
Barca’s financial limitations mean negotiations with Man Utd will now focus on transfer fees. United, however, refuses to lower its demands.
The Premier League side want Barcelona to activate the €30m (£26m) purchase option included in the initial loan deal and are unwilling to sanction another temporary deal.
United remain firm on transfer structure
FC Barcelona vs. RCD Espanyol de Barcelona – LaLiga EA Sports (Getty Images Sports)
The Red Devils have reportedly made it clear that they want to part ways with Rashford permanently this summer.
The club also want to remove his salary from the books as part of his team’s rebuilding plans.
Barcelona sporting director Deco has reportedly explored alternative structures, including another loan with a conditional obligation to buy, but United have resisted the proposals.
Rashford’s pay rise following Champions League qualification would have added further pressure on the club to complete a sale.
Despite links with alternative attacking targets, Barcelona still view Rashford as their priority signing. Flick also remains fully committed to returning England to the Camp Nou.
Barcelona believe Rashford gives them leverage
Barcelona believe Rashford’s desire to stay in Spain strengthens their negotiating position.
The striker reportedly has no interest in returning to Old Trafford and has discouraged interest from other clubs, limiting United’s options in the market.
This stance has encouraged Barcelona to continue exploring flexible payment structures, including deferred installments or a purchase obligation agreement in 2027.
However, the club remains aware that paying the full €30 million may ultimately be unavoidable.
Alternative options on Barcelona’s shortlist would also prove much more expensive. Atlético Madrid’s Julian Alvarez and Chelsea striker Joao Pedro have both been monitored, but their clubs are unwilling to negotiate a lower fee.
Barcelona faces decisive negotiations
Barca are expected to continue talks with Man United to try to finalize Rashford’s future before the start of pre-season.
The player also wants clarity on his situation after being included in Thomas Tuchel’s England squad for the World Cup.
United, meanwhile, appear determined to avoid another loan deal and will continue to push for a permanent transfer.
FIFA World Cup 2026: how to watch
The 2026 FIFA World Cup will take place from June 11 to July 19, 2026. Spread across three countries, the tournament will culminate with the final on July 19 at New York New Jersey Stadium in East Rutherford, New Jersey. All 104 tournament games will be broadcast live on FOX (70) and FS1 (34), with each game streamed live and on-demand in the FOX One and FOX Sports apps. A record 40 games, more than a third of the tournament, will be broadcast in prime time on FOX (21) and FS1 (19).
The June 11 opening match between Mexico and South Africa (3 p.m. ET) will be streamed for free on Tubi, along with the United States’ opening match against Paraguay on June 12 (9 p.m. ET).
