Marcus Rashford rejects eye-watering Man Utd exit offer and makes preference clear

Marcus Rashford has reportedly turned down a hugely lucrative offer from Saudi Arabia because he only has eyes for Barcelona. Rashford is in the wilderness in the summer transfer window, having been told he doesn’t feature in Ruben Amorim’s plans at Manchester United, but without an exit route lined up.

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.

But things have moved slowly, largely due to the financial situation at play. Rashford is paid £325,000 per week at United, where he is under contract until June 2028, and Barca do not have the money available to match those terms.

United would like to sell to whoever will match their £40million asking price, so will have been excited to hear of interest from the Saudi Pro League. However, Rashford has vetoed a move to the Middle East, according to Mundo Deportivo, who say he is waiting on Barca.

READ MORE: Transfer news LIVE: Man Utd offer, Arsenal sent Gyokeres message, Liverpool receive hint

READ MORE: Man Utd in race against time to meet Ruben Amorim's deadline to sign 'frustrated' star

The report says that Rashford was offered a deal worth €40m (£34m) by an unnamed Saudi side, but he dismissed it out of hand. His representatives have held talks with Barca and the England forward is said to be willing to lower his wages in order to achieve his dream move.

The problem is that United want a permanent sale for their academy product and Barca would like to sign him on loan with the option to buy for £30m to £40m. If they accept a loan deal on the condition that Barca pay Rashford’s wages that would save them around £17m over a year.

Rashford wants a move sorted as soon as possible, knowing that the Catalan giants begin their pre-season on July 24. Barcelona consider Rashford an alternative to Liverpool winger Luis Diaz, who has long been scouted by sporting director Deco.

It comes after Barca failed in their pursuit of Nico Williams, who ended up signing a new 10-year contract with Athletic Bilbao after Barca said they were willing to trigger his €58m release clause.

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."

Join our new MAN UTD WhatsApp community and receive your daily dose of Manchester United content from Mirror Football. We also treat our community members to special offers, promotions, and adverts from us and our partners. If you don't like our community, you can check out any time you like. If you're curious, you can read our Privacy Notice.