Marcus Rashford's hopes of a permanent move to Barcelona have suffered a setback after the exclusive £26 million release clause in his loan contract expired at the end of March. The clause, which allowed Barcelona to sign the Manchester United forward for a fixed fee, is no longer available, meaning the Spanish club will now have to negotiate a transfer fee with United if they wish to secure his services permanently.
The development has raised questions about Barcelona's commitment to signing Rashford, who is keen on a permanent switch to the Camp Nou. Barcelona's sporting director Deco recently described the three months until the summer transfer window as 'like an eternity,' suggesting the club may be taking a cautious approach amid ongoing financial difficulties. It remains unclear how much United would demand for Rashford or whether Barcelona might still receive a slightly reduced fee as a favour to the player.
Meanwhile, Manchester United defender Harry Maguire has been charged by the Football Association following his red card in the Premier League match against Bournemouth on March 20. Maguire was shown a straight red card for pulling Evanilson's jersey in the penalty area, but his subsequent reaction towards referee Stuart Attwell and fourth official Matt Donohue has led to additional disciplinary action.
An FA statement read: 'Harry Maguire has been charged after being sent off in the 78th minute of Man Utd's Premier League match against Bournemouth on March 20. It's alleged that the defender acted in an improper manner and/or abusive and/or insulting words and/or behaviour towards the fourth official following his dismissal. Harry Maguire has until April 2 to provide a response.'
Maguire was already suspended for United's next match against Leeds on April 13, but his ban could be extended depending on the outcome of the charge. Interim manager Michael Carrick had earlier criticised the officiating in the match, claiming United should have been awarded a second penalty after Amad Diallo went down under a challenge from Adrien Truffert, which the VAR deemed insufficient for a spot-kick.
