Barcelona are preparing a stunning summer swoop for Manchester United forward Marcus Rashford in a move that could see the England international leave Old Trafford, according to exclusive reports.
The Catalan giants have identified the 26-year-old as a prime transfer target as United consider cashing in on their academy graduate to raise crucial funds for manager Erik ten Hag's squad overhaul.
United's Financial Dilemma
With Financial Fair Play constraints tightening and United needing significant investment to compete at the highest level, club officials are reportedly open to offers for several first-team players. Rashford's potential departure would represent the most dramatic of all possible sales.
The forward, who came through United's youth system, endured a difficult 2023/24 campaign despite signing a lucrative new contract last summer that ties him to the club until 2028.
Barcelona's Bold Strategy
Barcelona's interest signals their intention to add firepower to Xavi's squad despite their own well-documented financial challenges. The Spanish champions believe Rashford's versatility across the front line and explosive pace would add a new dimension to their attack.
While no formal offer has been tabled, sources indicate preliminary discussions have taken place between intermediaries, setting the stage for what could become one of the summer's most dramatic transfer sagas.
Rashford's Rollercoaster Season
Last season proved challenging for Rashford, who managed just eight goals in all competitions - a stark contrast to his career-best 30-goal haul during the previous campaign. His dip in form coincided with United's overall struggles as they recorded their worst Premier League finish in decades.
The potential transfer would see Rashford follow in the footsteps of United legends who have made similar moves abroad, though the club's hierarchy remains divided on whether to part with one of their most marketable assets.
With pre-season preparations looming, all eyes will be on whether Barcelona formalise their interest and if United's new minority owners, INEOS, sanction the sale of their homegrown star.
