Barcelona face further pressure in Rashford’s signing as Premier League giants enter race – report | OneFootball

Marcus Rashford’s future is once again becoming one of the major talking points of the transfer market, and Barcelona may soon find themselves running out of time if they want to bring him back to Camp Nou.

According to Mundo Deportivo, the English forward is attracting interest from both Manchester City and Liverpool following his successful loan spell in Catalonia. 

While Barcelona have not completely closed the door on a permanent move, their decision not to activate the agreed purchase option has complicated the situation considerably.

With Manchester United now changing their position and several Premier League clubs monitoring developments, Barcelona could soon face serious competition for a player who made a strong impression during his time under Hansi Flick.

What’s the story?

Rashford’s future appeared relatively straightforward a few weeks ago, as Barcelona held an option to make his move permanent for around €30 million following his loan spell. 

Rashford is wanted by Man City and Liverpool. (Photo by Rich Storry/Getty Images)

However, the club ultimately prioritised other attacking targets and decided against activating the clause.

That decision has now altered the dynamics of the operation, as the England international is now expected to return to Manchester United after the World Cup. 

According to the outlet, United are no longer interested in approving another loan move and would instead prefer a permanent transfer.

The report also states that the club have increased their asking price significantly.

Any interested side would now reportedly need to pay around £40 million (€46 million), a figure substantially higher than the option Barcelona previously had available.

Manchester City and Liverpool enter the picture

Barcelona are yet to make a decision regarding Rashford. (Photo by Rich Storry/Getty Images)

Barcelona’s hesitation has not gone unnoticed elsewhere, as both Manchester City and Liverpool have shown interest in Rashford, something that creates an entirely different scenario for Barcelona.

Not only do both clubs possess greater financial muscle, but they can also offer the player the opportunity to remain in England.

Interestingly, Manchester United are attempting to block any potential move to either City or Liverpool, while Arsenal, despite being credited with an interest, are no longer considered active contenders for the player’s signature.

Even so, interest from rival clubs inevitably places additional pressure on Barcelona.