The case for and against: Should Barcelona really sign Marcus Rashford this summer? | OneFootball

There is a simple temptation with Marcus Rashford: remember the best version and convince yourself that Barcelona should make this signing permanent.

The speed, the directness, the ability to run beyond the defence when the game is stretched, the quality on the left wing, the versatility to play through the middle, the Champions League experience: the list of qualities that make Rashford attractive is endless.

On paper, there is enough evidence to understand why Barcelona made a move for a loan in the first place.

His loan from Manchester United runs until the end of June, and the Catalan club have a clause worth around €30 million to make the signing permanent that expires on the 15th of this month.

The question is not whether Rashford is useful. He has already proven that part.

The question is whether he is necessary.

The sporting case: Rashford gives Flick speed and flexibility

Barcelona have a decision to make regarding Rashford. (Photo by David Ramos/Getty Images)

From a purely footballing perspective, signing Rashford on a permanent basis is a no-brainer.

How do you say no to a player who registered 14 goals and 14 assists across all competitions just last season, despite not always being a nailed-on starter?

Rashford gives Flick something the Blaugrana need across a long season. He is a potent weapon to have off the bench and can turn a game around in an instant.

He offers a more direct route when the game is progressing at a slower pace. He is not a traditional Barcelona winger but suits the verticality that Flick wants.

This is where Rashford fits.

Over a 60-game season, players who can cover multiple roles, especially in attack, are extremely valuable, and Rashford offers that.

There is also the player’s desire. He is said to prefer a move to Barcelona and has turned a deaf ear to all other offers so far this summer as he continues to wait for the Catalan club.

The financial case: Barcelona cannot consider Rashford a priority

This is where the argument takes a 180-degree turn.

Barcelona should not be spending significant money on a player who does not solve their biggest attacking need.

Barcelona will have to spend €30 million on Rashford. (Photo by Justin Setterfield/Getty Images)

Their priority this summer, especially after signing Anthony Gordon, is signing the successor to Robert Lewandowski, who has left a huge void in the striker position.

Rashford helps the existing attack, but he does not complete it. He is not the final piece in the jigsaw.

Gordon occupies similar spaces to Rashford, plays from the left and offers more than the Manchester United forward out of possession.

He is much more of a stylistic fit for Hansi Flick than his older counterpart will ever be. Rashford has thus become less of a necessity and more of a luxury.

At €30 million, Rashford is not absurdly expensive in today’s market. That said, his wages are not set to be cheap.

Raphinha, Gordon, Lamine, Ferran Torres and a new number nine make up a very good attack, and the money for Rashford can be invested to improve the squad elsewhere.

Barcelona should keep the door open only if Manchester United lower the cost or agree to another loan deal. The player will also have to agree to a reduced wage structure and a peripheral role.

If the Catalan club do this deal, it has to be on their own terms. Otherwise, they should walk away.

This summer, Barca need clarity, not sentiment. Rashford is talented and can add value to the squad.

The No. 9, however, must come first.