Man United transfer news: Marcus Rashford suffers blow in bid to join Barcelona?

By Darren Plant | 01 Apr 2026 17:30

Marcus Rashford has reportedly suffered a blow in his effort to leave Manchester United for Barcelona.

The England international is currently spending a season-long loan at Camp Nou, and the stint is widely perceived to have been a success.

A total of 10 goals and 13 assists have been contributed from 39 appearances in all competitions, with Barcelona still in contention for a La Liga and Champions League double.

Barcelona are known to hold a buy option for a fee in the region of £26m, Rashford hoping that the Catalan giants eventually push forward with a permanent bid.

However, as per Nil Sola, there has been a development which makes Rashford less likely to make the full-time move to Spain.

Why has Rashford suffered Barcelona blow?

The report claims that Barcelona needed to activate the previously-agreed clause by the end of March.

As a result of no action being taken by the club, the figure of £26m is now irrelevant as it can no longer by automatically accepted.

Therefore, further negotiations will now need to be held to determine whether there remains a chance of Rashford leaving Old Trafford.

Barcelona have seemingly taken the decision in the hope of lowering a permanent fee for Rashford, or to explore another season-long loan.

Nevertheless, the report adds that Man United are unlikely to give any consideration to allowing the 28-year-old to spend another loan period at Barcelona.

Could stance work against Barcelona?

Barcelona officials know that Man United are eager to raise funds through selling Rashford, particularly because he is a homegrown talent.

Another loan proposal could theoretically work for the Red Devils before a sale in 2027, but Man United do not need to make a decision at this point in time.

Although Rashford's preference is to stay at Barcelona, other offers will naturally present themselves if he becomes available in the summer.

That may force Barcelona to match any bids from rival clubs, something which they may not be able to do.