Rashford transfer latest: Man Utd ready to sell striker for £40m to European giant

Manchester United have reportedly placed a £40 million valuation on Marcus Rashford, amid increasing signs that the academy graduate could leave the club this summer.

Rashford, 27, is currently on loan at Aston Villa, where he has shown flashes of his best form, contributing 4 goals and 6 assists in 17 appearances.

However, despite some encouraging moments, Rashford’s long-term future remains in doubt, particularly given United’s plans for a major squad overhaul under Rúben Amorim.

According to The Times, United are open to selling Rashford at the end of the season — and while Villa have an agreement to match a £40m offer, they do not have exclusive buying rights. That opens the door for clubs like Barcelona, who have long admired the England international.

“Marcus Rashford is open to leaving, and he sees Barcelona as an appealing destination,” a source close to the player told The Times. “He wants to play Champions League football — and Villa’s position next season will be key.”

Rashford has struggled for consistency over the past 18 months at United. Despite a career-best 30-goal campaign in 2022–23, his productivity dipped significantly last season, and reports of internal tensions under Erik ten Hag only added to the uncertainty surrounding his role at the club.

Under Amorim, Rashford has been used sparingly — and his omission from the starting XI in recent key matches, including the Europa League run, suggests the manager may be prepared to move on.

Still, Rashford remains one of United’s highest-profile players and is a fan favourite for his contributions on and off the pitch. Any potential exit would need to be carefully managed, especially amid growing scrutiny over the club’s identity and connection to its homegrown roots.

Barcelona, meanwhile, are believed to be monitoring the situation closely. With financial fair play restrictions easing, a cut-price deal for Rashford could represent smart business for the Catalan club — particularly if the player is willing to accept a pay cut to make the move happen.

With the summer window approaching and PSR obligations looming, Rashford’s future may be one of the first major transfer stories to unfold at Old Trafford.