Barcelona's verdict on Rashford signing as Man Utd begin preseason

Marcus Rashford’s future at Manchester United remains unclear with Barcelona willing to play the long game to sign him.

The squad have reported back to Carrington this week for medical assessments and fitness tests, officially beginning preparations for the 2025/26 campaign.

Among the returning faces are new signings Matheus Cunha and Diego Leon, who will be integrating with their new teammates for the first time.

Rashford’s situation remains one of the biggest talking points of the summer. After spending the latter half of last season on loan at Aston Villa and falling out of favour at Old Trafford, the 27-year-old is pushing for a move to Barcelona.

Negotiations between United and the Catalan club have not yet reached a solution, with Rashford reportedly willing to accept a significant pay cut to secure his dream move to Camp Nou, reported Sport.

Barcelona, having failed to land Nico Williams and Luis Diaz, have made Rashford a top target and are exploring a loan with an option to buy due to their ongoing financial constraints.

But they are in no rush, they realise that Rashford is not not wanted by Ruben Amorim and they have until the end of August to reach an agreement.

The situation with Rashford is also another example of United's poor negotiating transfers, according to critics.

Meanwhile, United have signaled a new era by handing Rashford’s iconic number 10 shirt to recent signing Matheus Cunha, a clear indication that Rashford is not in Amorim’s plans for the new season.

The club is seeking a permanent transfer for Rashford, valuing him at around £40 million, but may have to accept a loan formula given Barcelona’s financial situation.

As the squad undergoes medicals and fitness work at Carrington, Rashford’s absence from the core group underscores the likelihood of his departure.

Both United and Barcelona are hoping to reach an agreement in the coming days, with sources close to the negotiations describing Rashford as “desperate to wear the Blaugrana shirt.”

For United, moving on from Rashford would provide financial flexibility for further squad rebuilding, while for Barcelona, his pace and versatility are seen as key assets for Hansi Flick’s plans.

With United’s first pre-season friendly against Leeds in Stockholm just days away, the next 48 hours could be crucial in determining whether Rashford’s long association with his boyhood club comes to an end