Barcelona originally explored moves for Luis Díaz and Nico Williams to strengthen their forward line last summer. However, with financial demands rising and uncertainty over player registration, the Catalan giants were forced to pivot to an alternative solution — and that led them to Marcus Rashford.
The Manchester United forward arrived on a season-long loan and initially had to settle for a secondary role, often featuring behind Raphinha on the left side of the attack. But as the campaign has progressed, Rashford has become increasingly important, producing one of the strongest goal-contribution rates in the Barcelona squad during the first half of the season.
Loan deal details and the option to buy
Barcelona agreed a loan move for Rashford for the current season, reportedly worth around €5m, with an option to buy included. The purchase option is believed to be set at approximately €30m.
While earlier reports suggested Barcelona were unlikely to activate the buy clause, that position now appears to be changing. The club is understood to be more open to keeping Rashford beyond this season, especially given his impact and tactical usefulness across the forward line.
Why Barcelona value Rashford
Rashford’s numbers have stood out: seven goals and nine assists in 23 appearances is a major return, and his ability to contribute from multiple roles has strengthened his case.
Beyond the raw output, several aspects of his profile have been viewed as a strong fit for Barcelona’s needs:
- Versatility across the front line — capable of playing on either wing and through central areas when needed.
- Precise delivery in the final third — providing quality service and creating chances for teammates.
- Long-range threat — a valuable weapon against low blocks when space is limited around the box.
- Direct running power — able to threaten defences in behind, but also effective from a static start in tight areas.
For a team that often faces deep, compact defending, those qualities can be decisive — and they help explain why Barcelona’s stance on the buy option may be shifting.
What will decide Rashford’s future
Despite the growing optimism, the final decision is expected to depend on two key factors.
1) Performance in the second half of the season
Barcelona want Rashford to maintain the same level of efficiency and influence after the mid-season phase. His consistency — especially in big matches and during periods when the team needs solutions against stubborn defences — will weigh heavily.
2) His reaction if minutes reduce
If Raphinha stays fit and competition increases, Rashford may not always start. How he responds to reduced game time — and whether he continues to deliver impact off the bench or in rotation — is likely to be closely monitored.
The salary-limit challenge Barcelona must solve
Even if Barcelona decide they want to keep Rashford, the financial side could still be the biggest hurdle.
The club’s summer business will play a crucial role in shaping what is possible. Potential exits or contract decisions could create room within their salary limit, making a permanent deal more realistic. Any change in high-wage situations elsewhere in the squad could also influence whether Barcelona can accommodate Rashford on a long-term contract.
If Rashford were to sign a four-year deal on a salary at the top end of Barcelona’s wage structure, the club would likely need to generate significant salary-limit space to register him comfortably. And if they remain above their permitted limit, they may only be able to use a percentage of what they save or raise through sales — meaning smart departures and careful planning would be required.
Verdict: momentum building, but not decided yet
Barcelona’s position on Marcus Rashford appears to be moving in a more positive direction, driven by his output, flexibility, and the different attacking options he offers. However, the decision is not expected to be rushed. The second half of the season — and Barcelona’s ability to create financial room — will ultimately determine whether Rashford stays in Catalonia or returns to Manchester United once the loan ends.