Unexpected activity took place at FC Barcelona's offices today as club sporting director Deco met with Marcus Rashford's agent Arturo Canales.
According to SPORT, the meeting aimed to lay the groundwork for negotiations with Manchester United ahead of the summer transfer window. Discussions are still in an early stage, but Barcelona is keen not to miss any opportunity.
Deco is exploring the possibility of converting Rashford's loan into a permanent deal, also testing the waters on the €30 million purchase option that Manchester United insists is non-negotiable. Kosmas Theoharides, a well-connected figure in English football working at the same agency as Canales, was reportedly present.
Rashford’s impact since arriving has been noticeable. Deco publicly praised him two weeks ago, noting Rashford’s high competitive level and positive motivation to join Barcelona. The player was reportedly willing to accept a pay cut to make the move.
Deco clarified that there is no penalty if the purchase option is not exercised, although this seems unlikely. However, the path to a permanent move faces hurdles: Manchester United remains firm on the price, and Rashford’s wages exceed what Barcelona usually offers, meaning Rashford would need to accept a salary reduction.
Another complication is Barcelona’s already stacked attacking line. Lamine Yamal and Raphinha are key pillars of the team; other forwards compete intensely for minutes. According to El Nacional, Rashford senses a “hidden hand” behind the club’s hesitation, possibly linked to internal hierarchies.
Still, Robert Lewandowski is unlikely to stay for much longer due to his age, and there is always room for a player who can operate on the wing or through the middle to provide attacking spark.
On the pitch, Rashford recently returned from a minor knee knock but did not feature in the match against Levante.
