Barcelona have made a shock U-turn on Marcus Rashford’s transfer future, MySportDab reports.
Rashford joined Barcelona on a season-long loan deal last summer with a buy option, but was expected back at United when his loan deal expires.
Despite emerging into a key player for Hansi Flick’s side, the English forward is still down the pecking order in Flick’s attacking options.
He plays second fiddle to Raphinha in the wings and was only handed regular starts in the wake of the Brazilian’s absence due to injury.
Notably, despite his bit-part role in the Blaugrana squad, he has proven his mettle with an impressive goal contribution tally for the club.
At the time filing this report, the 28-year-old has found the net seven times and provided 11 assists in 26 appearances for the team.
Despite these healthy tallies, his future with the club remained uncertain, with close sources revealing the club aren’t ready to keep him on a permanent contract at the expiration of his loan tenure.
Now, according to the Athletic, Barcelona are keen on retaining him when his contract expires, not on another loan deal, but via a permanent contract.
Rashford’s Barcelona switch was more of an escape from his dwindling fortunes at Man United as it came amidst a boiling standoff with now-sacked Ruben Amorim.
While his potential return to United is still on the table, close sources reveal he is hopeful of continuing his career at Barcelona and building on his recent gains.
Per the terms of contract with United, Barcelona have to pay about €30million for Rashford’s permanent transfer, but are likely to renegotiate personal terms to avoid potential financial breaches.
