Marcus Rashford's hopes of securing a permanent transfer to Barcelona have faded after the forward failed to impress in the Champions League quarter-finals, according to reports. The 28-year-old is currently on a season-long loan at the Camp Nou after falling out of favour at Manchester United under former manager Ruben Amorim.
Barcelona hold an option to make the move permanent for approximately £26 million at the end of the season. However, Rashford was presented with a golden opportunity to prove his worth when Raphinha suffered a hamstring injury this month. He started the first leg of the Champions League tie against Atletico Madrid but produced a lacklustre display, and was subsequently dropped to the bench for the second leg as Dani Olmo took his place. Barcelona were eliminated 3-2 on aggregate.
Further complications have emerged regarding the transfer fee. Spanish newspaper Marca reports that Barcelona have requested paying the £26 million clause in instalments, but Manchester United have refused to renegotiate the original agreement. While club sources previously indicated that Rashford's personal terms would not be an issue, Barcelona are now exploring alternative options to strengthen their forward line.
With Robert Lewandowski's future uncertain beyond next season, the Catalan giants may prioritise signing a natural striker instead of investing heavily in Rashford, who prefers the left flank. Players such as Victor Osimhen and Dusan Vlahovic have been linked with moves to the Camp Nou. Should Rashford return to Manchester United, interim manager Michael Carrick has left the door open for his reintegration, but Carrick's own future at the club beyond the current campaign remains uncertain.
