Marcus Rashford could be reintegrated into Manchester United's first-team squad if Barcelona decide against triggering their £26 million option to buy the forward permanently, according to reports. The Premier League club faces a decision on the 28-year-old's future after his loan spell in Spain.
Barcelona have an option to purchase Rashford at the end of the season, but uncertainty surrounds whether the La Liga side will activate the clause. Some reports suggest the Spanish club may attempt to negotiate a lower fee, while other Premier League and European clubs have already made enquiries about a potential summer transfer.
Former Manchester United midfielder Owen Hargreaves has called on the club to give Rashford another opportunity under a different manager, identifying the left-wing position as the ideal role. Speaking to TNT Sports, Hargreaves said: 'I think Marcus would suit brilliantly on the left-hand side. That's probably the only spot where there's a bit of space for somebody in that left-wing position.'
Rashford has enjoyed a productive season at Barcelona, scoring 10 goals and providing 13 assists in 39 appearances across all competitions. However, he has been used more frequently as a substitute in recent weeks. When asked about a permanent move, Rashford told TNT Sports in October: 'I want to stay for as many seasons as possible. We will see.'
Hargreaves added: 'Sometimes a change of scenery is good for both, but I'd love to see him stay. The climate is different now, so he might thrive. I hope he stays, but I can understand if he doesn't.'
