Report: Man United are already regretting £26m transfer deal | OneFootball

Man Utd transfer latest: Rashford valuation sparks frustration

Manchester United’s transfer strategy is again under scrutiny, with fresh details emerging from the Daily Star regarding Marcus Rashford’s situation in Spain. The report claims United chiefs are regretting their decision to agree to sell Marcus Rashford to Barcelona for a mere £26m.

Since his loan move to Barcelona last summer, Rashford has managed to rejuvenate his previously faltering career. Ten goals in 35 appearances have altered perceptions, as has his reinstatement in Thomas Tuchel’s England squad. United now estimate Rashford’s worth to be closer to £50m, and they are aware that several other clubs are eyeing him up for a summer transfer.

Photo IMAGO

Loan terms create dilemma for hierarchy

The complication lies in the structure of the agreement. When the loan was sanctioned, United gave Barca the first option to sign him for no more than £26m. It is believed that some high ranking individuals at United are frustrated by the terms of the deal and would prefer the winger went elsewhere.

That frustration is understandable. Market values shift quickly, particularly when form improves and international recognition follows. Rashford’s profile has risen again, and £26m now feels like a figure from a different economic cycle.

Yet there is little room for manoeuvre. With Rashford eager to make his Camp Nou stay permanent, Barca might try to capitalise on this by pushing for an even lower price for the striker. United’s leverage appears limited, especially as there is no recall clause in the loan contract, meaning a return to Old Trafford is not possible, even if all parties were in favour.

Barcelona stance and contract reality

Sir Jim Ratcliffe remains keen to remove Rashford from the club’s payroll. His £15m a year contract runs until 2028, a significant commitment in a squad recalibration. However, Ratcliffe is not thrilled about the idea of letting Barca secure the 28 year old’s services on the cheap.

Interestingly, despite being one of United’s top earners, Rashford only ranks as the sixth highest paid player in the Barcelona squad. Barcelona manager Hansi Flick is reportedly eager to retain Rashford for the long haul, a view reinforced by the player’s own actions. He has purchased a lavish flat in Espluges, boasting views of the Collserola mountains, and is said to be relishing life in Catalonia.

Photo IMAGO

Rumours suggest interim manager Michael Carrick would welcome Rashford back at United. That possibility, though, appears theoretical. Rashford has confided to those close to him that he has no plans to return to his boyhood club, having made the tough choice to pursue his career elsewhere.

With Rashford expected to be named in Tuchel’s final squad for this summer’s World Cup in North America, the optics for United are uncomfortable. A rejuvenated forward thriving abroad while his former club debates valuation inevitably raises questions about timing and judgement.

Our View – EPL Index Analysis

This feels like another chapter in a pattern of reactive decision making. Rashford’s form dipped, confidence waned and the solution was a quick exit with a low ceiling fee. Now that he is scoring again and back in the England picture, the club appears to have undersold an academy graduate entering his prime years.

The frustration is not about sentimentality. It is about strategy. If the valuation truly sits around £50m now, why was a £26m option agreed without safeguards? In a market where proven Premier League attackers command significant fees, that clause looks light.

There is also the symbolic weight. Rashford is not an ordinary squad player, he represents continuity from academy to first team. Seeing him flourish under Hansi Flick while United rebuild again under shifting leadership stings.

Supporters will argue that financial discipline matters, especially with wages of £15m a year. But discipline must align with foresight. Allowing Barcelona first refusal at such a figure reduces negotiating power at a time when United need every advantage.

If he departs permanently for £26m, it will be viewed by many fans as a missed opportunity, both sporting and commercial.