Fresh complications hit Barcelona’s plans for permanent signing of 28-year-old forward | OneFootball

Marcus Rashford’s future is becoming one of the biggest talking points ahead of the summer transfer window, with fresh developments at Manchester United potentially threatening his chances of staying at FC Barcelona permanently.

The England international has enjoyed an encouraging loan spell in Spain and is believed to be open to continuing his career at Barcelona. 

However, the situation at Old Trafford could now completely reshape the outcome of the operation.

What’s the story?

According to reports from SPORT, the possible appointment of Michael Carrick as Manchester United’s permanent manager may become a major obstacle to Rashford’s continuity at Barça.

Carrick has reportedly remained one of Rashford’s strongest supporters and has never fully ruled out the possibility of reintegrating the forward into United’s long-term plans. 

The former midfielder still believes Rashford can recover his best level in England and reportedly views the player’s performances during his Barcelona spell positively.

That support could become decisive because there is currently no full agreement inside Manchester United regarding what should happen with the striker this summer.

While part of the club’s sporting structure sees Rashford’s sale as an important step in rebuilding the squad, Carrick is believed to hold a different opinion. 

The potential new manager feels Rashford still has the quality and experience to become an important player again at Old Trafford if managed correctly.

What about Barcelona?

At the same time, Barcelona are also far from fully convinced about making the move permanent.

Although Rashford has produced respectable numbers during his loan spell, doubts continue to exist internally regarding his consistency levels and defensive work rate. 

Barcelona’s sporting management are also exploring younger and financially safer attacking options before making a final decision.

Notably, Barcelona would need to activate a €30 million purchase clause to complete the signing permanently, a figure the club is still evaluating given their transfer priorities.