Barcelona declines Marcus Rashford buy option, player set to return to Manchester United
Barcelona have confirmed they will not exercise the £26 million option to make England forward Marcus Rashford’s loan permanent, meaning the 28‑year‑old will return to Manchester United after the World Cup. During his 2025/26 loan he recorded 14 goals and 14 assists in 47‑49 appearances, helping the Catalan side retain the La Liga title and win the Spanish Super Cup.
The club instead completed a £70 million signing of fellow England international Anthony Gordon from Newcastle United, citing Gordon’s defensive work and younger age. Rashford’s £315,000‑a‑week wages and the financial constraints of the Blaugrana were also highlighted as factors in the decision.
Manchester United have indicated they are not looking to reintegrate Rashford and have begun contacting potential buyers across Europe, the Middle East and North America. Reported interest includes Arsenal, Bayern Munich, Paris Saint‑Germain, Atletico Madrid and MLS side Inter Miami. The decision deadline is 15 June, after which United expect Rashford to report for pre‑season unless a transfer materialises.