Barcelona Close to Activating Rashford Clause as Manchester United Stand Firm on £26m Fee

The pieces appear to be falling into place for Marcus Rashford's permanent switch from Manchester United to Barcelona, with fresh reports indicating the Catalan club are preparing to activate the buy option from his loan deal.

Rashford arrived at the Nou Camp last summer on a temporary arrangement that included a purchase clause worth around 30 million euros—approximately £26m—following an impressive loan spell at Aston Villa. Barcelona took the gamble on the English forward as a more economical option compared to Luis Diaz and Nico Williams, with his adaptability across the attacking line adding to his appeal.

The gamble appears to have paid off handsomely. Across 34 appearances this season in all competitions, Rashford has delivered ten goals and 13 assists, proving his worth to Hansi Flick's side in both a winger and striker capacity.

However, Barcelona's well-documented financial constraints have cast doubt over whether they could afford to make the deal permanent. The Spanish outfit has struggled with registration issues in recent campaigns, and crucially, Manchester United have refused to budge on renegotiating the original terms of the loan agreement.

Fabrizio Romano confirmed this week that United remain adamant on the matter. "Manchester United want the €30m option clause paid in full," the transfer specialist stated. "The message from United is clear – pay €30m or the player doesn't join. So Barcelona feel strong because the player is on their side, but they still need to agree terms with Manchester United. United do not want to offer any discount."

Yet momentum has shifted dramatically. Journalist Matteo Moretto reported on Friday evening that Barcelona are now "very close" to completing the signing, noting that Rashford has remained a top priority for both Flick and the club hierarchy.

Spanish publication Sport has gone further, claiming Barcelona have resolved to "activate the £26m clause" and secure Rashford's permanent services. The outlet states that Barcelona possess a "firm commitment" to the striker and plan to meet Manchester United's €30 million valuation in full.

According to sources cited by Sport, personal terms with Rashford are already settled. The remaining hurdle centres on LaLiga's financial fair play regulations, with the player potentially needing to accept a salary reduction to facilitate the move—unless Barcelona identify alternative means of generating sufficient financial margin.