Marcus Rashford has had a productive loan spell at Spanish giants Barcelona, but his hopes of securing a permanent move to Camp Nou appear to be fading ahead of the summer.
Marcus Rashford has scored 10 goals for Barcelona this season (Image: Getty Images)
Barcelona are reportedly interested in signing Chelsea’s Pedro Neto as a potential replacement for Marcus Rashford. The Manchester United forward spent last season on loan at Camp Nou, with an option to make the move permanent for a fee of €30 million.
Rashford has since had a productive season at Barcelona, scoring 10 goals and providing 13 assists in all competitions. Despite this good form, Barcelona are still keeping their options open and considering other potential targets.
One player that could be considered is Chelsea winger Neto. According to reports in Spain, the Portuguese wideman is on the club’s shortlist to increase their attacking options.
Chelsea signed Neto from Wolverhampton Wanderers in 2024 for £54m. He made 93 appearances for the Blues, scoring 19 goals in all competitions.
Join us on Facebook! For the latest news, analysis and more on our Mirror Football Facebook page
read more: Liam Rosenior confirms Chelsea will investigate squad leaked before PSG defeatread more: Transfer negotiations between Erling Haaland and Barcelona begin as Man City hold Spanish conference
Neto’s contract with the Blues runs until the summer of 2031. The Portuguese winger is currently in trouble after a controversial few weeks.
The player has already been handed a one-match ban by the FA for his actions after being sent off against Arsenal. Meanwhile, there is a possibility that he will receive further punishment for shoving a ball boy during a match against Paris Saint-Germain in midweek, for which he has apologized.
“I looked back and it doesn’t look good,” Chelsea manager Liam Rosenior said. “I understand Pedro’s point of view and his desire to win, but there is a way to do it.
Barcelona interested in signing Pedro Neto (Image: Getty Images)
“I was very impressed that he was so quick to apologize. We all make mistakes, and it’s important to learn from them and make sure they don’t happen again.”
Elsewhere, Rashford will be hoping to continue to make an impact at Barcelona. Ahead of this weekend’s game against Sevilla, Barça manager Hansi Flick said: “Marcus was out for a few days, but he has come back strong.It hasn’t been decided yet, but he is a good option (to start).”
Rashford could win the first league title of his career at the end of the season. Barcelona are currently four points behind rivals Real Madrid at the top of La Liga.
Meanwhile, Chelsea will be battling to qualify for next season’s Champions League under manager Rosenior. The Blues currently sit in fifth place, three points behind Aston Villa.
Join our new WhatsApp community and receive Mirror Football content every day. Community members also receive special offers, promotions, and advertisements from us and our partners. If you don’t like our community, you can always check out. If you are interested, please read our privacy notice.
