Despite a stellar loan spell at Camp Nou, Marcus Rashford’s permanent future remains uncertain as Barcelona eye Dusan Vlahovic and Michael Carrick considers an Old Trafford return.
Marcus Rashford’s dream stay at FC Barcelona has hit a potential roadblock. While the Manchester United loanee has revitalized his career under Hansi Flick, the Catalan giants are reportedly exploring alternative options for their frontline, with Juventus striker Dusan Vlahovic emerging as a major threat to Rashford’s permanent spot.
According to reports from Sport and Tuttosport, Vlahovic has given his agent “clear instructions” to prioritize a move to Barcelona. The 26-year-old Serbian, whose contract with Juventus is nearing its end, is seen as the ideal “mobile striker” to eventually succeed Robert Lewandowski. For a cash-strapped Barça, Vlahovic’s potential availability on a reduced fee or as a free agent makes him a formidable rival to Rashford for the club’s 2026 summer budget.
The “Buy Option” Tug-of-War
Rashford has been a revelation in Spain, tallying 10 goals and 13 assists in 34 appearances. Barcelona holds a £26 million (€30m) option to buy the England international permanently at the end of the 2025/26 season. However, recent whispers suggest the Blaugrana are attempting to negotiate that fee even lower, a move Manchester United’s INEOS leadership is currently resisting.
The Michael Carrick Factor
Adding another layer of complexity is the situation at Old Trafford. With Michael Carrick now at the helm as interim manager following Ruben Amorim’s departure, the door to Manchester United may not be as tightly shut as before.
Carrick is reportedly a huge admirer of Rashford and would be open to reintegrating the forward into his squad if he is granted the permanent manager role. However, Rashford has reportedly informed those close to him that his heart is set on staying in Catalonia, having recently purchased a home in the Esplugues area.
What’s Next for Rashford?
The 28-year-old now finds himself at a career crossroads. To secure his permanent future at Camp Nou, Rashford must maintain his high output to convince Joan Laporta and Deco to trigger his clause before competitors like Vlahovic force their hand.
Ronald Mike is a football writer covering the English Premier League, providing match analysis, tactical insight, and coverage of key rivalries and title races across the season.
