Marcus Rashford’s Barcelona teammate Frenkie de Jong has made it abundantly clear how highly regarded the Manchester United loanee is within the club, with a decision over his long-term future drawing ever closer. Rashford spent the season in Spain after a tough period under former head coach Ruben Amorim.
Hansi Flick’s side retain an option to sign the 28-year-old for £26m this summer, but Barça are reportedly hoping for a further season loan extension to secure Rashford for a reduced fee in the summer of 2027. There is also speculation out of Spain that the La Liga giants are keen to negotiate a lower price to sign Rashford on a permanent deal at the end of this season.
“He’s a really good bloke,” De Jong told the Guardian when asked about Rashford, leaving no doubt about the forward’s importance to the team.
“Open and kind, he has a huge impact on us on the pitch as well. He really adds a lot to our game with his speed and depth.
“And in doing that, he also forces the opposition defense back a little bit, which creates more space in our middle.”
Rashford has already made it clear that he wants to stay in Spain, previously saying: “Oh, for sure. I enjoy this football club and for anyone who loves football I think Barcelona is one of the most important clubs in the history of football. It’s an honor for a player.”
From United’s point of view, Barcelona would have to pay the full £26m option if they wanted to sign the player permanently, but they are reportedly unwilling to accept a reduction in his contract.
After Saturday’s 3-2 win over Liverpool sealed their place in the Champions League, United are now focused on maximizing their incoming income to shore up the funds available in the summer transfer window.
United reportedly have no plans to bring Rashford back into the squad, even if former teammate Michael Carrick remains head coach next season.
Rashford, who has scored 13 goals and provided 14 assists this season, could become La Liga champions if Barça avoid defeat against Real Madrid next Sunday. Flick’s side need just one point to build an advantage over Madrid, who beat Espanyol 2-0 on Sunday, but Barça maintain an 11-point cushion over Alvaro Arbeloa’s side with four games in hand.
