Marcus Rashford’s transfer plan will green light Man Utd’s first move of the summer

Marcus Rashford has no desire to return to Manchester United after his Barcelona loan spell, with the England star keen to secure his permanent move before the 2026 World Cup begins in June

Marcus Rashford reportedly has no plans to return to Manchester United following his loan stint at Barcelona.

The 28-year-old made the move to the Spanish giants in the summer after finding himself sidelined at Old Trafford. Barcelona, under Hansi Flick, secured Rashford on a season-long loan with an option to make the transfer permanent for a fee of €30million (£26m).

The England star has been in fine form, contributing to 22 goals in 32 appearances, much to the delight of his new club. Previously, it was suggested that Barcelona were hesitant to pay the agreed fee for Rashford, proposing a lower offer or another loan deal with a compulsory purchase clause at the end of the 2026/27 season.

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However, a recent report from Spanish publication Marca appears to dispel these rumours, stating that the club is now prepared to trigger the clause and sign him permanently for £26m. Fortunately, Rashford is also said to be eager to make the move.

The striker has no wish to return to Old Trafford when his loan spell ends. The report suggests that Rashford wants his long-term future sorted out before England head to North America for the 2026 World Cup, reports the Manchester Evening News.

The Three Lions’ opening match in the tournament falls on June 17 against Croatia, a fortnight after Barcelona’s current campaign concludes.

While there are whispers that Michael Carrick might try to convince him to return to United should he land the permanent role, Rashford’s ambitions lie firmly in Spain.

Even should his Nou Camp adventure collapse, Rashford is believed to favour a switch to another club rather than picking up where he left off at United. If everything aligns perfectly, United’s primary summer acquisition should be Rashford.

His permanent departure is expected to be among numerous transactions finalised at season’s end. United have already announced that Casemiro will leave when his deal runs out, with several current players attracting attention elsewhere.

Manuel Ugarte, Joshua Zirkzee and Kobbie Mainoo were all touted for January departures, though Ruben Amorim’s exit has considerably boosted the latter’s standing within the United squad.

The England midfielder has featured in all three matches since Carrick’s return to the club, with calls mounting for his inclusion in the Three Lions setup.

United are presently fighting for Champions League qualification, with a top-five finish set to boost their summer spending power.

Rashford’s departure and potential exits for Ugarte and Zirkzee will only create additional flexibility for transfers in the window.