Manchester United bosses are regretting the deal that allowed Marcus Rashford to join Barcelona for just £26m. The forward, who moved on loan last summer, has revived his career in Spain, scoring 10 goals in 35 appearances and earning a recall to the England squad under Thomas Tuchel.
United now believe Rashford's market value is closer to £50m, with several other clubs expressing interest. However, the initial loan agreement included a clause giving Barcelona first option to sign him permanently for no more than £26m, a term that has left senior figures at Old Trafford frustrated.
Rashford is eager to make his move to the Camp Nou permanent, and Barcelona may attempt to negotiate an even lower fee. Interim manager Michael Carrick would reportedly welcome Rashford back, but the loan deal contains no recall clause, preventing a return even if all parties agreed.
Co-owner Sir Jim Ratcliffe is keen to remove Rashford's wages from the bill but is unhappy at the prospect of allowing Barcelona to land the 28-year-old on the cheap. Rashford, once one of United's highest earners, is now only the sixth highest-paid player in the Barcelona squad, and manager Hansi Flick is keen to keep him long term.
Rashford has purchased a luxury apartment in Barcelona and is said to be loving life in Catalonia. Despite his contract with United running until 2028, he has told those close to him he has no intention of returning to his boyhood club. He is expected to be included in England's squad for this summer's World Cup in North America.
