Man Utd news: Marcus Rashford to Barcelona intervention as bidding war set | Football | Sport
Marcus Rashford and Hansi Flick (Image: Getty Images)
Michael Carrick’s first summer transfer window at the helm of Manchester United appears destined to be a frantic one. The Old Trafford legend has already guided his former side back into the Champions League but is now poised to be given control in the market. Among the initial priorities for United will be to settle Marcus Rashford’s future.
And the England forward has been given a significant update concerning his prospects of completing a permanent switch to Barcelona following a successful loan spell at the Camp Nou. There’s also been a dramatic development regarding the pursuit of one Premier League star who could take his compatriot’s place. Express Sport brings you the latest news surrounding United in today’s top headlines…
Flick wades into Rashford deal
The likelihood of Rashford joining Barca on a permanent basis appears to have increased after Hansi Flick gave the move his blessing. Reports in Spain suggest the German manager has informed Rashford he’s counting on him returning to Catalonia once more.
It recently emerged that Barcelona would prefer that to be in the form of another loan, with a view to making the transfer permanent in 2027. However, United are unwilling to accept those terms as they look to sanction a sale this summer.
Flick’s reassurance marks a significant development in the saga, as it suggests he may now put pressure on Barcelona’s board to finalise a deal. It’s widely understood that La Liga’s back-to-back champions are not in the strongest financial position, though United will hope Robert Lewandowski’s departure frees up the funds needed to keep Rashford on board.
It has long been established that Barcelona can make Rashford’s switch permanent for a sum of approximately £26million. The Spanish side have tried to drive that figure down, but United are holding firm on the valuation for a player who has registered 14 goals and 14 assists this season.
Jarrod Bowen could leave West Ham this summer (Image: Getty Images)
Should Flick fail to land his target, United will presumably be content to showcase Rashford to potential suitors and possibly secure a higher sale price. Meanwhile, Carrick would welcome the player back to Old Trafford in what could yet prove a major development in the months ahead.
Should Rashford depart the club, one name being considered to replace him will be West Ham’s Jarrod Bowen. However, United will be far from alone amongst Premier League giants pursuing his signature.
The Guardian reported that West Ham will need to raise £100m from player sales this summer should they suffer relegation. And England international Bowen will be amongst the leading candidates to be offloaded in the event the east Londoners drop down.
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It is understood that Liverpool and Chelsea are also monitoring Bowen’s situation closely. Liverpool in particular could represent fierce rivals in the race for his signature, having previously been linked with the winger, and Mohamed Salah‘s departure will demand reinforcements.
Bowen, 29, has contributed eight goals and 10 assists so far this season ahead of Sunday’s crucial relegation showdown at home to Leeds. Realistically, the Hammers must beat Leeds and hope Spurs, who currently sit two points ahead, slip up at home to Everton if they are to have any chance of avoiding the drop.
United may still pursue a move for Bowen even if West Ham retain their top-flight status, given that Nuno Espirito Santo’s side will be under pressure to sell key assets regardless. The Red Devils are said to be admirers of Bowen’s attacking versatility, though the intense competition for his signature could make negotiations considerably more complicated.
