Barcelona are reportedly keen to make Marcus Rashford, currently on loan from Manchester United, on a permanent contract. The English striker impressed in his early days with the Catalan giants and left them feeling like they had hit the jackpot. Rashford, 27, is thought to be linked with a £30m move to Barça at the end of the season. The option to sign him permanently is worth £25 million plus an additional £5 million in add-ons, with United also retaining a portion of any future sale fees.
Barcelona initially had some concerns about completing the deal, but have been surprised by Rashford’s quick impact. There was some skepticism as to why the Red Devils were prepared to let him leave, despite the initial hurdle being their own financial constraints.
The Mirror reports that Barcelona officials were initially concerned that there was a problem with the star striker, but Rashford’s agent, his brother Dwayne, reassured the team that the United academy graduate would not cause any problems. The Spanish side now believes there is room for negotiation.
Rashford didn’t contribute a goal in his first three matches, but has made 10 appearances, scoring three goals and providing five assists. The forward has scored more goals and provided more assists than any of his teammates so far this season.
And Rashford seems to be as obsessed with Barça as he is with them. The prolific goalscorer is solely focused on extending his stay despite attracting interest from the likes of Paris Saint-Germain.
The former Aston Villa loanee has been clear about his future ambitions.
“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 helping the team in any way I can.”
Barcelona manager Hansi Flick could not contain his joy after his side’s impressive performance against Newcastle in the Champions League.
“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 in the first half we were trying to create chances, but we just couldn’t finish. In the second half we had it.”
“It’s always good for a striker to score. I’m really happy. He’s an important player. When we talked about what we needed in the team before the season, we felt we needed a player like him. When we had this chance (to sign him), we said we have to do it. He’s an outstanding player.”
Rashford is currently part of Thomas Tuchel’s England squad and came on as a substitute against Wales.
The forward will be hoping to play more against Latvia in order to continue his excellent form at the start of the season.
