Spanish Giants and five-time Champions League winners Barcelona have opened talks with Manchester United over keeping Marcus Rashford beyond his loan spell, though a permanent deal remains far from straightforward for the Blaugranas.
Barcelona, hindered by ongoing financial constraints, are exploring alternatives to the existing £30 million purchase option rather than triggering it outright. TalkSports reports that the Catalan club opened dialogue early in January 2026, tabled more financially palatable options, and even proposed the idea of a second loan with a conditional obligation to buy.
Rashford is understood to be happy in Catalonia and open to extending his stay at the Camp Nou, with club president Joan Laporta already communicating Barcelona’s desire to retain the England international. This alignment from both parties has bolstered the club’s negotiating hand, with the 28-year-old winger currently not entertaining other suitors.
While Rashford’s market value would normally justify triggering the buy option, Barcelona remain cautious, unwilling to commit without first testing the waters with more favourable terms. Negotiations are therefore expected to gain momentum towards the season’s end.
Manchester United, however, would prefer a permanent sale this summer. Rashford remains under contract at Old Trafford until 2028, and despite having no plans to reintegrate him into the squad, the club is under no immediate pressure to compromise on their terms and valuation.
In Blaugrana colors, Marcus Rashford has made a reliable first impression, registering seven goals and eleven assists across all competitions–second only to Lamine Yamal this season. Two of those goals came in a hard-fought Champions League win against the Magpies of Newcastle securing three crucial points to strengthen the club’s qualification bid.
Negotiations are still in the early stages, but both clubs are expected to find a common ground by season’s end, potentially extending Rashford’s stay at the Camp Nou until 2029.
