Barcelona is not expected to trigger the €30 million ($34.8 million) option to convert Marcus Rashford‘s loan from Manchester United into a permanent deal, sources inform ESPN. The final decision rests with coach Hansi Flick, with a deadline approaching on Monday.
As previously reported by ESPN, Barcelona must inform United by June 15 if they choose to proceed with the agreement, which requires payment in three installments of €10 million each.
Current indications suggest that the Spanish champions have not yet communicated their intentions, although there is still a possibility they might consider re-signing Rashford. However, after the acquisition of Anthony Gordon from Newcastle United for €70 million, there is a prevailing sentiment within the club against spending another €30 million on a left winger.
Nonetheless, Barcelona is open to discussing a reduced fee or potentially bringing Rashford back on loan for another season. However, ESPN has previously reported that United are not currently inclined to lower their asking price.
Rashford, 28, had a successful season with Barcelona, scoring 14 goals and providing 14 assists while helping the team clinch LaLiga and the Spanish Supercopa.
Following a stunning free kick during the title-winning match against Real Madrid in May, he expressed that if he were a “magician,” he would choose to stay at Barcelona.
Barcelona is still considering retaining him, but the addition of Gordon, who occupies the same position, complicates matters.
– Transfer rumors, news: Arsenal in pole position for Álvarez as Real Madrid and Barcelona miss out on bids
Real Madrid reveals €150 million offer turned down for Julián Álvarez
London City Lionesses heading the pursuit to sign Alexia Putellas post-Barcelona exit – sources
Raphinha, who primarily plays on the left wing, is another player of interest, and with Barcelona also targeting Atlético Madrid‘s Julián Álvarez as a potential replacement for the departing Robert Lewandowski, the allocation of financial resources for further attacking signings remains uncertain.
ESPN previously reported that Flick is aiming to recruit at least two additional forwards as part of a summer offensive overhaul.
Gordon represents the first step in this overhaul, and the club is still optimistic about adding Álvarez as the second, despite Real Madrid’s recent €150 million bid for the Argentine being rejected by Atlético.
Rashford, currently in the United States for World Cup preparations with England, could still become the third attacking signing, contingent on negotiations with United and any additional departures from the frontline.
This report includes contributions from ESPN’s Mark Ogden.