Hansi Flick makes Marcus Rashford decision as star ‘exploring options’ | Football | Sport

Barcelona boss Hansi Flick continues to support the signing of Marcus Rashford and has informed the forward he is pleased with his performances in Catalonia. Flick, however, has made it clear to the loanee that the ultimate decision does not lie exclusively in his hands, according to the Spanish media outlet Cadena SER.

The Catalan giants have a £26million purchase option in their loan arrangement with United to sign him. The financial commitment means there has been considerable speculation over Barca’s readiness to activate it.

Rashford is willing to substantially reduce his wages to sign with the club, or to agree a longer contract so the transfer can be amortised over an extended period and is said to be ‘exploring his options’ to help facilitate a move. The England international is eager to remain at Camp Nou.

“This is the perfect way I want it to end. I’m very happy, I just want to enjoy today,” Rashford said after winning the league.

“I live in the moment. At the end of the season, we will see.

“I came here to win and we do this so I’m very happy. It’s an incredible feeling.

“Over the season we deserved it, we were the best team. We had some bad moments but we always come back and fight to improve.”

Should Barcelona show any hesitation, Real Madrid could look to muscle their way into proceedings. Jose Mourinho is anticipated to make his return to the Spanish capital and has reportedly earmarked Rashford as a key target, drawing on their shared history at Old Trafford.

Mourinho believes the winger would be a prized asset to a squad he is keen to make both deep and fiercely competitive. Such a move could equally serve to unsettle Barcelona in their pursuit.

The Portuguese coach is expected to be announced as the new Los Blancos boss following the end of the season, and unveiled in Madrid next week. He is set to sign a two-year deal.