Marcus Rashford's route to joining Bayern Munich looks set to be closed after the German champions reached an agreement for Ismael Saibari. The Manchester United forward finds himself at a crossroads at Old Trafford after Barcelona opted against triggering the £26million buyout clause.
Rashford's Form and Interest
The 28-year-old, who is currently away with England at the World Cup, rediscovered his form in La Liga with the Catalan giants netting 14 goals in 49 appearances in all competitions, adding 14 assists. After Barcelona opted to splash out on Anthony Gordon from Newcastle United, Bayern Munich were linked with Rashford's services.
Vincent Kompany's side were said to have made contact with chiefs at Old Trafford over the possibility of signing Rashford. However, their attention turned to Saibari of PSV Eindhoven.
Bayern's New Target
The Moroccan has come to the fore at the World Cup in North America after opening the scoring against Brazil during their group opener and reports suggest Bayern have won the race for his signature - leaving Rashford's future unclear once more.
As a result, PSV will receive a record fee for a player after a €55million (£47m) deal was agreed between the two clubs for the forward three years Rashford's junior.
Conflicting Reports on Rashford's Future
For the United academy graduate, there have been conflicting reports surrounding his future and his own aspirations. Spanish outlet Marca has claimed that Rashford is committed to remaining in Catalonia and returning to Barcelona next season, despite Hansi Flick's side deciding against signing him on a permanent basis.
Rashford is said to have received confidence from the German tactician that another move can be arranged. The report continues that the United forward believes a second spell with the club is possible whether it is permanent or on a temporary basis. As it stands, he has just over two years remaining on his deal at Old Trafford with his current contract due to expire in 2028.
Potential Reintegration at United
Reports elsewhere have suggested that the 28-year-old has explored the possibility of reintegrating within the United first-team after an exodus of almost 18 months. Rashford fell out of favour under Ruben Amorim which ultimately led to him leaving for Aston Villa on a short-term loan last season. He found himself searching for a new club in the summer where he settled upon a move to Barcelona.
But with Amorim sacked by the club in January and Michael Carrick being installed as his permanent successor, a new leaf can be turned on the forwards' time at Old Trafford. It has been suggested that the England international has reached out to some of his teammates about a comeback and is said to have received positive feedback from members of the squad.
