Marcus Rashford's Barcelona Return Timeline Emerges as Man Utd Scout Juventus Defender
Manchester United will not feature on the pitch this weekend following their early exit from the FA Cup after a third-round defeat to Brighton. The Red Devils do not return to action until their Premier League trip to Everton on February 23, where interim boss Michael Carrick aims to maintain his unbeaten start.
Before that match, Carrick is expected to face challenging questions regarding co-owner Sir Jim Ratcliffe, who recently stated in an interview that the United Kingdom has been "colonised by immigrants." Ratcliffe has since apologised for his wording, emphasising his intent to discuss controlled immigration that supports economic growth.
Rashford's Potential Return to Barcelona Action
Marcus Rashford could be back in action for Barcelona in a matter of days after his momentum was interrupted by a knee injury. The on-loan forward, who has been linked with a summer return to Old Trafford, missed the Copa de Rey tie against Atletico Madrid as a precaution. Barcelona suffered a 4-0 loss in that match and will seek to recover when they face Girona in league play on Monday.
Rashford has undertaken light gym work with the goal of returning to full training ahead of the Girona fixture, as reported by SPORT. His availability would provide a significant boost to head coach Hansi Flick, who has also been without Rashford's positional rival, Raphinha, due to injury.
Despite ongoing speculation about a potential return to Manchester United, Rashford is believed to favour making his stay at Barcelona permanent. The Catalans hold an option to buy the England star outright for £26 million.
Manchester United's New Transfer Strategy
While midfield remains a clear area of focus for Manchester United ahead of next season, the club is also looking to strengthen in defence. According to reports from Tuttosport in Italy, United officials have devised a new transfer plan after travelling to watch highly rated Juventus defender Pierre Kalulu during the match against Inter Milan at the San Siro on Saturday.
Kalulu, aged 25, is capable of operating as both a centre-back and right-back and has reportedly attracted interest from several Premier League clubs. Juventus are desperate to retain the Frenchman and are prepared to offer him a contract extension until 2030 along with a substantial salary increase.
However, if Manchester United, who could lose Harry Maguire this summer, present a significant offer, Juventus might be tempted to sell. This scouting mission underscores United's proactive approach to bolstering their defensive options as they plan for the future.
