Rashford takes major step towards Barca move as green light given

Barcelona’s pursuit of Marcus Rashford has taken a major step forward after manager Hansi Flick gave the green light to sign the Manchester United forward.

Flick’s approval, reported by multiple Spanish outlets, ends weeks of internal debate at Camp Nou and confirms Rashford as the club’s number one attacking target for the left wing this summer.

Barcelona’s transfer focus shifted to Rashford after failed attempts to land Nico Williams—who renewed with Athletic Club—and Liverpool’s Luis Diaz, with the Reds refusing to negotiate.

Rashford, who spent the second half of last season on loan at Aston Villa, has made it clear that a move to Barcelona is his top priority, reported Sport.

The England international is reportedly willing to take a significant pay cut to help facilitate the transfer, fully aware of Barcelona’s ongoing financial constraints and LaLiga’s strict salary cap rules.

Flick’s endorsement is seen as a decisive moment. The German coach has informed sporting director Deco that he wants Rashford in his squad and has urged the club to accelerate negotiations with Manchester United.

Rashford, meanwhile, has been training alone at Carrington, separated from United’s main group, as he awaits clarity on his future.

He is not in new manager Ruben Amorim’s plans, and United have already handed his iconic No. 10 shirt to new signing Matheus Cunha, further signalling a changing of the guard at Old Trafford.

Given Barcelona’s financial situation, the most likely structure for the deal is a loan with an option to buy.

United are seeking a fee in the region of £40 million, but may have to accept a loan arrangement if a permanent transfer cannot be agreed immediately.

Deco is now expected to ramp up talks with Rashford’s representatives and United in the coming days, with both clubs eager to find a solution before pre-season preparations intensify.

Rashford’s determination to join Barcelona, coupled with Flick’s approval, has made the English forward the undisputed top target for the Catalan giants.

As negotiations enter a crucial phase, all eyes will be on whether Barcelona can finally bring Rashford to La Liga and offer him the fresh start he is seeking.