Manchester United are already focusing their attention on shaping the squad ahead of the summer transfer window. The club has secured third place in the Premier League and will return to the Champions League next season.
Rashford's Barcelona Twist
Manchester United loanee Marcus Rashford continues to dominate transfer headlines. According to Spanish publication Mundo Deportivo, the forward has agreed in principle to a three-year deal with Barcelona. However, the terms must be altered to finalise a permanent move. The England international's salary is reportedly 40 per cent lower than his wages at United.
Mundo Deportivo claims that Rashford views changing the three-year agreement as his “only option” to remain at Barcelona. Extending the contract to five years would be financially beneficial for the Catalan club, as it would allow them to amortise the transfer fee over a longer period.
Barcelona have a buy option of around £26 million, but the two clubs have yet to reach an agreement. The Catalan side are unwilling to meet the full buy option, while United have no intention of lowering the price. Rashford has contributed eight goals and nine assists in 31 appearances this season, helping Hansi Flick's side secure the La Liga title.
Heaton Nears New Deal
Veteran goalkeeper Tom Heaton is set to sign a one-year contract extension at United. The 40-year-old has served as the club's third-choice shot-stopper since 2021, making his last competitive appearance in February 2023.
Heaton began his career in United's academy and enjoyed successful spells elsewhere before returning. He has also been a mentor for United's new number one, Senne Lammens. His homegrown status will be beneficial for United's Champions League squad, as UEFA rules require a quota of eight association-trained players, including at least four homegrown stars, for a full 25-man squad list.
Manager Michael Carrick has been instrumental in transforming the team's form and edges closer to being appointed permanently. He will be aware that several key decisions are needed in the transfer window.
