Barcelona would “love” to sign Manchester United forward Marcus Rashford again if they can strike a deal within their financial constraints. That is according to former United star and La Liga expert Terry Gibson, who has claimed Barca are hopeful of retaining Rashford’s services, but are in negotiations with United “regarding his salary”.
Rashford, 28, joined Barca on loan from United last summer and has flourished since his switch to Spain, netting 14 goals and registering 14 assists in 47 appearances across all competitions this season. On Sunday, the England international scored a stunning free-kick to help Barca defeat Real Madrid 2-0 and clinch the La Liga title in the process.
Rashford played 64 minutes before being substituted by Raphinha. Speaking after the match, Rashford revealed he is keen to prolong his time at Barcelona, though he conceded he remains uncertain about what lies ahead this summer.
Barca hold a £26million option to buy Rashford, yet the Spanish club are hesitating over triggering the permanent clause in his contract. Gibson believes Barca are eager to hold onto Rashford but want to ensure any further deal fits within their spending framework, with the club operating under strict financial limitations imposed by La Liga.
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Appearing on Sky Sports, Gibson, who made 23 league appearances for United in 1986 and now commentates on La Liga, said: “I think if Barcelona have their way, they would love to have Marcus Rashford next season.
“I see Barcelona’s position as a bit of a bargaining tool at the moment. I mean, they’re looking at possibly needing a centre forward if Robert Lewandowski leaves the club, so they need money for that transfer.”
He added: “I think they’re probably trying to do a deal with Manchester United and Marcus Rashford regarding his salary. The way he’s played, the way he’s performed this season, he’s been really important to Barcelona. Lewandowski’s been injured, Ferran Torres has been out of form, Raphinha’s had lots of injuries, Lamine Yamal is injured at the moment.
“Marcus Rashford has been fit all season. He’s been a really important part of the squad that has won the league title. He capped it off last night with a really good performance and a spectacular free kick to open the scoring.
View 2 ImagesMarcus Rashford could still make a permanent move to Barcelona(Image: Getty Images)
“I think it’s clear Marcus Rashford wants to stay and I totally get that. He looks like he’s enjoying his football. He looks like he’s enjoying living in Barcelona. As I say, he’s a popular team-mate, a really important part of the squad. But I think Barcelona, we know what their financial implications are and I think if they can do a deal with Manchester United, I think they would love to keep him.”
Rashford has been in scintillating form for Barca in recent weeks, netting four goals and contributing one assist across their last six La Liga outings. He has played a pivotal role in Hansi Flick’s side clinching the Spanish top-flight title for a second consecutive season, and admitted he would stay at the Camp Nou if he were a “magician”.
The Wythenshawe-born star has made clear that joining Barca was his dream move and that he would remain at the club given the choice. “I don’t know. I am not a magician, but if I was, I would stay. So we will see,” Rashford said in the mixed zone, following Barca’s El Classico win against Real on Sunday.
Rashford and Barcelona are next in action when they take on Alaves on Wednesday. The Catalan giants then welcome Real Betis before rounding off the season with a trip to Valencia.
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