Man Utd ‘fire strong Marcus Rashford message to Barcelona’ in fresh transfer talks | Football | Sport

Manchester United have reportedly sent an ultimatum to Barcelona in discussions over a permanent move for Marcus Rashford. It’s been widely reported that Rashford wants to stay at the Nou Camp beyond the end of his loan spell, rather than return to Old Trafford when the season draws to a close. He has enjoyed a new lease of life with the Catalan giants, scoring 10 goals and providing 13 assists in all competitions.

There is a clause in Rashford’s loan deal allowing Barcelona to buy him for around £26million in the summer transfer window. However, they are said to be stalling over the price given their well-documented financial issues. Any attempts to negotiate a lower fee are likely to fall on deaf ears, though, with United standing firm.

They have told Barcelona to pay the full value of Rashford’s purchase clause or forget about signing him permanently, according to Fabrizio Romano.

It was reported earlier this month that United believe the 28-year-old is worth far more than £26m, given his impressive performances since joining Barcelona on loan.

It comes after Spanish media reported that Rashford’s agent, Arturo Canales, held crunch talks at the Nou Camp on Monday in an attempt to find a resolution.

He was said to have been accompanied by Kostas Theoharides, a fellow agent who played a key role in organising Rashford’s initial loan move.

Theoharides is believed to have a strong relationship with United chiefs and Barcelona are reportedly hoping this could help them to reach a compromise in talks.

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However, with the Red Devils still insisting that the purchase clause is paid in full, it seems unlikely that a lower fee will be agreed in spite of Barcelona’s wishes.

Rashford is reportedly willing to accept a pay cut to force through the move and has already made it clear that he wants to stay in Spain beyond the end of this season.

Back in October, he told ESPN: “For sure [I want to stay at Barcelona]. I’m enjoying this football club and I think for anybody who loves football, Barcelona is one of the key clubs in the history of the game.

“For a player, it is an honour. Relationships on the pitch, the ones I am still learning, are very important. When it comes to the matchday, these are things which make small differences.

“They have such high quality. It’s the perfect scenario to play with players like this.”