Barcelona have ramped up their pursuit of Marcus Rashford from Manchester United following their unsuccessful attempt to sign Spanish star Nico Williams, who recently committed his future to Athletic Club by signing a contract extension. This setback forced Barcelona to urgently reevaluate their transfer targets for the summer window as they look to strengthen their attacking options, particularly on the left wing.
The Catalan club had identified Williams as their top priority due to his pace, creativity, and suitability for their tactical system. However, after missing out on the 21-year-old, they have shifted their focus to Rashford, who has now emerged as the leading candidate to fill the critical gap in their frontline. Rashford is reportedly seen as a versatile forward who can play both as a winger and a striker, offering Barcelona valuable tactical flexibility.
Another major factor boosting Barcelona’s interest is Rashford’s openness to the move. Unlike other potential targets, the England international is said to be highly enthusiastic about the prospect of joining the Catalan giants. The 27-year-old forward has reportedly made it clear that he prefers a switch to Camp Nou over other big European clubs, including Bayern Munich, and is not keen on continuing at Old Trafford under the current circumstances.
According to reports from CaughtOffside, relayed by journalist Santi Aouna, Barcelona are preparing to open formal negotiations with Manchester United as early as next week. The club initially had plans to spend around €62 million on Williams, but they are now aiming for a financially more flexible approach to secure Rashford. Ideally, they want a loan deal that includes an option to buy rather than an immediate or mandatory permanent transfer, to help them navigate their ongoing financial challenges.
Rashford’s situation at Manchester United appears increasingly unstable. His role at the club has significantly diminished, and his high wage demands have reportedly become a point of contention within the squad. These factors have weakened United’s negotiating power and made them more open to the possibility of letting him leave, either on loan or through a favorable transfer agreement.
While Barcelona remain officially interested in signing Luis Diaz from Liverpool, they are aware of the complications involved. Liverpool have already rejected bids from both Barcelona and Bayern Munich for Diaz and remain determined to keep the Colombian star at Anfield. This has led Barcelona to consider Rashford as a more realistic and accessible alternative to reinforce their attack in time for the new season.
Securing Rashford would not only fill a key void in the squad but also signal Barcelona’s intent to remain competitive at the highest level, despite their well-documented financial constraints. Fans and pundits alike are now keenly watching how negotiations unfold in the coming weeks, as Barcelona look to reshape their squad and return to European dominance.