Marcus Rashford finds himself in a difficult situation with regard to his continuity at FC Barcelona beyond the current season.
Currently on loan at the Catalan club from Manchester United, Rashford’s deal contains a €30 million purchase option. At one point this season, it appeared a certainty that Barça would activate that clause and retain him permanently.
However, his dip in form and reduced role in the team, coupled with his high salary, have made the club reconsider their position.
As such, they are pushing for an extension of a loan deal – an option that Manchester United are refusing to consider, leading to a standoff.
Arsenal, Bayern Munich keeping an eye on Rashford situation
Even as Barcelona continue to haggle with Manchester United over Rashford, the Daily Mail reports that Arsenal and Bayern Munich are closely monitoring his situation.
Even though he has experienced a decline in the second half of the season, the 28-year-old Englishman has posted impressive numbers during his loan stint at Barça.
So far in 2025/26, Rashford has recorded 13 goals and 14 assists from 46 appearances in all competitions.
What next for Rashford? (Photo by David Ramos/Getty Images)
While he has largely played on the left wing, the Manchester United loanee has recently shown he can be an option on the right flank as well, making a case for his continuity at Barça.
Hansi Flick, for his part, is understood to be happy with Rashford, who himself has his heart set on staying put at the Spotify Camp Nou.
However, Barcelona are not fully convinced and continue to explore possibilities to either lower the €30 million buy clause fee or extend the loan deal.
As far as Manchester United are concerned, they are desperate to offload Rashford permanently, as shedding his £315,000-a-week wages will be critical for them to strengthen their squad.
Therefore, a return to Old Trafford in the summer can pretty much be ruled out. And if Barcelona decide not to retain him, Arsenal and Bayern Munich could make a move.
