Man Utd could deny Marcus Rashford's dream transfer as club set out conditions

Marcus Rashford could be about to find that his wishes and those of Manchester United are not aligned as a dream move to Barcelona becomes a possibility. Both United and Rashford are on the same page over his departure from the club in the summer transfer window, but the nature of that exit is where the sticking point lies.

Rashford has made it clear that he is keen to join Barcelona ever since concluding a long spell at Aston Villa. While his brief loan spell at Villa ended in injury, Rashford still managed to revitalise his career with four goals and six assists in 17 appearances.

That suited United, who have made it clear that Rashford does not have a future at his boyhood club after a falling out with Ruben Amorim. The 27-year-old has his heart set on a move to Barcelona – and his representatives held talks with the club in late May over the potential move.

However, there are a few difficulties that must be overcome if Rashford is to get his move to Barca. First of all, his £325,000-a-week wages at United, where he is under contract until June 2028, are too steep for Barcelona, who have struggled with La Liga’s financial rules in recent years.

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Then there was Barca’s move for Athletic Bilbao winger Nico Williams, who now looks likely to arrive in a £50million move this summer. Williams – and Barca’s stand-out player last season, Raphinha – play on the left of attack, which is Rashford’s best position.

Barca boss Hansi Flick reportedly believes that, rather than playing off the wing, Rashford could become a back-up to Robert Lewandowski as a No.9. Lewandowski scored 27 La Liga goals to help Barcelona beat Real Madrid to the title season, but will turn 37 in August.

Another problem is outlined by The Times, who report that United want £40m for Rashford, while Barca are preparing to make an offer of a loan deal. His impressive form for Villa has strengthened the club’s resolve that he is worth £40m – and that could scupper a move to the cash-strapped Catalans.

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United still have 68 days left until the transfer deadline on September 1, so could draw out the negotiations. But they will be acutely aware that they could accept a loan deal, on the condition that Barca pay Rashford’s wages – a clause that would save them around £17m over a year.

Rashford has been working on his fitness by himself, but has issued a clear plea to Barca. Speaking while on holiday in Marbella, he was asked by Spanish YouTube channel whether he wants to play with Barca wonderkid Lamine Yamal in the future.

"Yeah, sure. Everybody in the world wants to play with the best," the forward replied. "So hopefully, we'll see."

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