Barcelona manager Hansi Flick has informed Marcus Rashford that he wants him at the club next season, boosting the forward's chances of a permanent move from Manchester United. Reports in Spain suggest Flick has told Rashford he is counting on him returning to Catalonia, potentially pressuring Barcelona's board to finalise a deal this summer.
Barcelona had preferred another loan with an option to buy in 2027, but United are unwilling to accept those terms and seek a permanent sale. The La Liga champions can turn Rashford's move permanent for around £26 million, though they have attempted to negotiate a lower fee. United are standing firm on the figure, with Rashford contributing 14 goals and 14 assists this season.
If Rashford leaves, United may target West Ham's Jarrod Bowen. The Guardian reports West Ham will need to raise £100 million from player sales if relegated, and Bowen is a prime candidate to be sold. Liverpool and Chelsea are also monitoring the 29-year-old, who has eight goals and 10 assists this season.
United manager Michael Carrick faces a busy first summer transfer window, having already secured Champions League qualification. The club is prepared to welcome Rashford back if a sale does not materialise, but the emergence of a bidding war for Bowen could complicate matters.
