Marcus Rashford is aiming for a permanent move to Barcelona despite interest from other top European clubs. The England international is currently on a season-long loan move from Manchester United to the Catalan club, with an option for Barcelona to make the move permanent for a fee of £26 million next summer.
Rashford’s impressive performances for Barcelona have also attracted attention from other clubs across Europe, including Paris Saint-Germain, following their Champions League encounter. However, the Mirror reports that since leaving Old Trafford, Rashford remains committed to fulfilling his childhood dream of playing for the Spanish giants and earning a permanent move to Barcelona next summer.
Barcelona manager Hansi Flick has publicly praised Rashford, and the 27-year-old even caught the eye of England manager Thomas Tuchel during his international duty. The Manchester United loanee came on in the second half of England’s 3-0 win over Wales last Thursday.
Rashford will be hoping to secure a starting place against Latvia on Tuesday and a favorable result for England could seal their place in the World Cup. He has been in great form since the last international break, scoring in England’s 5-0 win over Serbia.
Rashford has scored four goals and provided four assists in his last eight games for club and country. His latest goal came as Barcelona suffered a shocking 4-1 defeat to Sevilla as the reigning La Liga champions relinquished their lead.
Flick praised Rashford’s performance in the Champions League at St James’ Park last month, where he scored twice to help Barcelona beat Newcastle 2-1.
“I’m not surprised (with his goal),” Flick said. “I think he’s a great player. His skills are unbelievable and his finishing is unbelievable.
“I think we tried to create chances in the first half, but we couldn’t convert them. That’s what happened in the second half. It’s always good for a striker to score, so I’m really happy.”
“He’s an important player. When we talked about what the team needed before the season, we felt we needed a player like him. When we had this chance (to sign him), we said we had to do it. He’s an outstanding player.”
Rashford has recently hinted publicly that he is keen on a permanent move to Catalonia.
“I want to stay as many (seasons) as possible. Let’s see,” he told TNT Sports. “I have to focus on doing my job and trying to help the team in any way I can.
“I’m learning a lot. It’s a new style of football, but it’s made me a better player. It’s been a great experience, to be honest. I’ve always been a big Barcelona fan and all the players my age have watched them play, and it’s great football.”
Barça sporting director Deco told Mundo Deportivo: “There is no penalty clause in the loan contract if we do not sign him. We also have the option of making him a permanent player if we wish. It is too early to talk about a decision for next season. The important thing is that we are happy with him.”
