Barcelona delay final call on 28-year-old forward as salary concern clouds transfer | OneFootball

Barcelona’s permanent acquisition of Marcus Rashford is far more complicated than it may initially appear. 

While the framework of the deal is already in place, the club is deliberately holding back from making a final decision and it is not because of the transfer fee.

As reported before, Barcelona have already done most of the groundwork required to bring the Manchester United forward to Camp Nou. 

A non-mandatory purchase option worth €30 million has been agreed, structured across three instalments of €10 million. 

On top of that, personal terms with the player have also been settled, with a three-year contract ready to be activated.

However, despite everything being lined up, the club have chosen not to rush into completing the deal.

What’s the problem?

According to Mundo Deportivo, the main issue lies not in the transfer fee itself, which is considered manageable, but in the financial implications of Rashford’s salary. 

Barcelona remain cautious about how his wages would affect their already delicate financial fair play situation, making this a decision that requires careful evaluation rather than urgency.

Barcelona will wait until the end of the season. (Photo by Angel Martinez/Getty Images)

As things stand, the club want more evidence before committing.

Barcelona are closely tracking Rashford’s performances during the decisive final stretch of the season. 

While his overall numbers, 10 goals and 13 assists in 38 appearances, suggest a solid contribution, there are concerns about his recent form, as he has not found the back of the net since January 31.

Waiting game

This explains why the Catalan side is willing to wait, even if the player himself is keen to resolve his future as soon as possible.

If Rashford can deliver a strong end to the campaign, particularly in high-pressure matches, Barcelona will have little hesitation in activating the purchase option. 

In that scenario, the financial risk would be justified by his impact on the pitch.

However, if his struggles continue, the situation becomes far more uncertain. 

Given the weight of his salary on the wage structure, Barcelona cannot afford to take a gamble without clear sporting guarantees.