Marcus Rashford ‘Agrees’ Permanent Barcelona Move After Key Talks Over Manchester United Exit

Marcus Rashford has reportedly edged closer to completing a permanent departure from Manchester United, with Barcelona understood to have reached an agreement in principle to secure the forward’s services this summer.

The England international joined the Catalan club on loan last summer in a deal running until the end of the season, which includes an option for Barcelona to make the transfer permanent.

According to Spanish publication Sport, Barcelona have now held decisive discussions with Rashford’s representatives and are prepared to activate the £26 million (€30 million) purchase option embedded in the agreement.

Productive Spell at Camp Nou

Rashford has enjoyed an impressive campaign at Camp Nou, contributing 10 goals and 13 assists across all competitions this term. His form has helped re-establish him as a key attacking figure following a period of inconsistency at Old Trafford.

Barcelona are reportedly satisfied with his impact both on and off the pitch, viewing him as an experienced addition capable of leading the line or operating from the left flank.

However, the report indicates that Rashford’s current salary — believed to exceed £300,000 per week — has been a significant factor in negotiations. To facilitate the permanent move, the player is understood to have agreed to reduce his wages, although the exact details of the revised contract remain undisclosed.

Rashford is expected to sign a three-year deal should the transfer be formally completed.

Negotiations and Key Figures

Discussions have involved Rashford’s agent, Arturo Canales, and Barcelona’s sporting director, Deco, who has overseen the club’s recruitment strategy. Talks this week are described as crucial in reaching a compromise over personal terms.

Barcelona’s willingness to meet the transfer fee signals their intent to secure the forward’s long-term future, provided financial adjustments align with the club’s wage structure.

End of an Era at Old Trafford?

If finalised, Rashford’s last appearance for Manchester United will have been in December 2024 against Viktoria Plzeň in the Europa League — his 426th outing for the club in all competitions.

A product of United’s academy, Rashford’s departure would mark the end of a significant chapter for both player and club, concluding nearly a decade of first-team involvement.

Rashford on Life in Spain

Speaking to BBC Sport in December, Rashford expressed his satisfaction with life in Spain:

“I don’t see anything here as pressure. I’m here to play football. It’s been amazing. I feel welcome, I feel at home. I’ve just been enjoying every step of the way.”

With an agreement reportedly in place and personal terms nearing completion, all indications suggest that Marcus Rashford’s future lies in Catalonia, as Barcelona prepare to formalise one of the summer’s most high-profile transfers.