Manchester United Firm on Marcus Rashford’s Transfer Price Amid Barcelona Interest

MANCHESTER, England – Manchester United have reportedly informed Barcelona that they will not lower their asking price for forward Marcus Rashford during this summer transfer window.

Rashford spent the latter half of last season on loan at Aston Villa, where he impressed enough to gain attention from multiple clubs. Aston Villa has the option to buy Rashford permanently for £40 million (approximately €47.5 million or $53.9 million), but sources indicate they are unlikely to pursue the option.

With a return to Villa Park now looking improbable, Rashford is expected to leave Manchester United in the coming weeks. Barcelona has openly expressed interest in signing him, but United’s financial demands are posing a significant challenge.

Reports indicate that Barcelona would prefer to negotiate a loan deal for Rashford. However, United has made it clear they will not budge on the price, reportedly set at €40 million (£33.7 million or $45.4 million). This firm stance continues to complicate matters for Barcelona.

So far, Barcelona has yet to meet United’s asking price. They have proposed a loan with an option to buy and even considered a mandatory purchase clause at a lower fee, but United has shown no inclination to negotiate.

Rashford is reportedly willing to reduce his salary demands to facilitate a move to Barcelona, but progress has been slow due to ongoing negotiations with United. Recent reports hint that Barcelona is eager to expedite their efforts, even suggesting a reduced asking price of €35 million (£29.5 million or $39.7 million).

Barcelona is also exploring other options, including Liverpool’s Luis Díaz and Arsenal’s Gabriel Martinelli, as well as speculation surrounding Rafael Leão of AC Milan. However, Rashford remains a central figure in their transfer plans.

Ultimately, as negotiations continue, the situation reflects the complexities of player movements within the current market environment.