Rashford says yes to Barcelona, but only with a starring role under Hansi Flick
The Manchester United forward is ready to lower his salary to join Barça, but he wants one thing in return: to feel indispensable.
Marcus Rashford’s time at Manchester United is nearing its end, and the English international has made it clear that his next destination of choice is Barcelona.
According to reports from Nacional CAT and Fichajes, Rashford has agreed to sign with the Catalan club but with a condition: he must be a guaranteed starter under new manager Hansi Flick.
Rashford’s Demands: Play Me or Pass
Rashford’s main priority is to reignite his career and rejoin England’s national setup ahead of the 2026 World Cup. After falling out of favor with Rúben Amorim at Manchester United and returning from an uninspiring loan spell at Aston Villa the 26-year-old forward is seeking regular minutes and a central role at club level.
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“Rashford doesn’t want just any move he wants purpose,” a source close to the player reportedly said. “Barcelona gives him the stage, but he wants to be more than a cameo.”
Money Not a Problem
Surprisingly, salary won’t be a deal-breaker. Rashford is reportedly willing to accept a significant pay cut to join Barça, knowing the club’s financial limitations. His primary concern is his sporting relevance, not his paycheck.
For Barcelona, this is a welcome development. In a summer where every euro matters, acquiring a Premier League-caliber attacker for a reduced salary is an enticing prospect.
Ter Stegen and Other Key Movements
Rashford isn’t the only player potentially heading for the Camp Nou. Barça is making major moves under Hansi Flick:
- Ter Stegen could leave the club, with a surprise move to Manchester City reportedly in the works possibly on a free transfer.
- Flick has also requested Bryan Zaragoza from Bayern Munich, with the Spanish striker reportedly willing to wait for a move to Barcelona.
- Meanwhile, fans have begun buzzing online, asking whether Vinícius Júnior would even fit into this new-look Barcelona under Flick a reflection of just how much the squad may change.
Rashford’s Situation at United
Rashford, once a cornerstone at Old Trafford, is now out of Amorim’s plans entirely. Alongside fellow outcasts Jadon Sancho and Antony, he has returned to United for preseason but is not expected to stay.
With Manchester United open to selling and Rashford keen to go a transfer feels inevitable. Barcelona now holds the cards.
What Happens Next?
For now, the only barrier to Rashford’s transfer is Barcelona’s internal decision-making. Hansi Flick reportedly likes the player, but must evaluate how Rashford fits into his tactical setup especially with ongoing negotiations involving other forwards like Julian Álvarez and Christopher Nkunku.
If Barça can offer the playing time Rashford wants, this deal could become one of the most impactful and surprising transfers of the summer.
