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Barcelona are preparing fresh 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 their €30m (£26m) valuation.
Barcelona Step Up Rashford Pursuit
The Blaugrana are stepping up efforts to sign Rashford permanently after his productive loan spell in Spain, and according to talkSPORTBarça plan to hold fresh transfer talks with the Red Devils ahead of 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 project.
The Catalan side have reportedly agreed personal terms with Rashford, who is prepared to accept a revised contract structure and a reduced overall wage to help facilitate the transfer.
Barça’s financial constraints mean that negotiations with Man Utd will now focus on the transfer fee. However, United refuse to lower their demands.
The Premier League side want Barcelona to activate the €30m (£26m) purchase option included in the original loan deal and are unwilling to sanction another temporary deal.
United stand firm on the 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 a permanent separation from Rashford this summer.
The club are also keen to take his wages off the books as part of their squad rebuilding plans.
Barcelona sporting director Deco is said to have explored alternative structures, including another loan with a conditional obligation to buy, but United have resisted those proposals.
Rashford’s pay rise following Champions League qualification has reportedly added further pressure on the club to complete a sale.
Despite links with alternative attacking targets, Barcelona still regard Rashford as their priority signing. Flick also remains fully committed to bringing England forward back to 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 fended off interest from other clubs, limiting United’s options in the market.
This attitude has encouraged Barcelona to continue to explore flexible payment structures, including deferred installments or an obligation to buy in 2027.
Yet the club remain aware that eventually paying the full €30m fee may be inevitable.
Alternative options on Barcelona’s shortlist would also prove far more expensive. Atlético Madrid’s Julian Alvarez and Chelsea striker Joao Pedro have both been monitored but their clubs are unwilling to negotiate lower fees.
Barcelona face decisive negotiations
Barca are expected to continue discussions with Man United in a bid to finalize Rashford’s future before pre-season begins.
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.
2026 FIFA World Cup: How to watch
The 2026 FIFA World Cup will run from June 11 to July 19, 2026. Spread over three countries, the tournament will culminate with the final on July 19 at the New York New Jersey Stadium in East Rutherford, New Jersey. All 104 tournament games will be broadcast live across FOX (70) and FS1 (34) with every game streaming live and on-demand on both FOX One and the FOX Sports app. A record 40 games, more than a third of the tournament, are televised in prime time across FOX (21) and FS1 (19).
The June 11 opener between Mexico and South Africa (3 p.m. ET) will stream for free on Tubi, as will the USA’s June 12 opener against Paraguay (9 p.m. ET).
