Rashford's main hope for a move revealed as Dortmund 'priced out'

Marcus Rashford's substantial wages have reportedly ruled out a potential move to Borussia Dortmund for the Manchester United forward.

The England international has attracted interest from several clubs as he considers a new challenge.

Dortmund, who loaned Jadon Sancho from United last season with the Premier League side covering a portion of his salary, were linked with Rashford but find his £350,000-per-week pay package prohibitive.

Speculation about Rashford's future comes amid reports that former United manager Erik ten Hag is a candidate for the vacant managerial role at Signal Iduna Park.

Dortmund dismissed Nuri Sahin after a defeat to Bologna dented their chances of a top-eight finish in the Champions League league phase.

However, it is understood that the financial implications of Rashford’s wages remain a major obstacle, irrespective of who takes charge at Dortmund.

Beyond Germany, Rashford has also drawn attention from clubs in France and Italy.

Barcelona, however, is reportedly his preferred destination. The Catalan giants are seen as the most realistic option for a move, though their financial situation complicates any deal.

Rashford’s representatives are believed to have met with Barcelona officials in Lisbon earlier this week, ahead of Barca’s dramatic Champions League victory over Benfica.

Barcelona’s potential move for Rashford hinges on La Liga’s strict wage regulations, with the club needing to offload players to create room in their budget.

Reports suggest former United target Ansu Fati could be among those Barcelona considers selling to facilitate new signings.

Meanwhile, United are said to favor a loan arrangement similar to the one that saw Sancho join Dortmund last season.

The proposed deal would include a loan fee and performance-related bonuses, but Rashford's high salary remains a sticking point. With the January transfer deadline approaching, the situation could yet change.

Dortmund, on the other hand, are reportedly exploring alternative targets, including Brentford’s Kevin Schade.

The 21-year-old German international is valued at around £45 million but would command significantly lower wages than Rashford.

Rashford has not featured for United since mid-December, though he was an unused substitute in their defeat to Newcastle before the New Year.

He has resumed training and could still play a role in Ruben Amorim’s squad for the remainder of the season.

Ahead of United’s Europa League clash with Rangers, Amorim urged his team to start strongly following their latest Premier League setback against Brighton.

“We need to make sure they don’t score first,” Amorim said. “If we get the first goal, it will change things, especially at home, where we’ve struggled to play with confidence. It’s clear we are anxious, and that makes it harder at Old Trafford.”

As the transfer window edges toward its conclusion, Rashford’s future remains uncertain, with several factors still in play.