Marcus Rashford is set to leave Manchester United for Barcelona on loan in a deal that could include a permanent option—but the move has triggered fierce debate among United fans who question the club’s handling of another high-profile exit.
Marcus Rashford looks set to begin a new chapter in La Liga, with reports confirming that Manchester United are close to finalizing a loan move to Barcelona for the England international. The deal is expected to include an option to buy, giving the Catalan giants the chance to make the move permanent at the end of the 2025–26 season.
According to The Athletic, negotiations have accelerated through intermediaries, with United provisionally accepting the structure of the deal. Rashford is reportedly on board and eager for a change of scenery after a difficult year at Old Trafford under Erik ten Hag and, more recently, Rúben Amorim.
Flick’s Plan for Rashford
New Barcelona boss Hansi Flick has identified the left wing as a priority area this summer and sees Rashford as an ideal fit. However, with the Blaugrana still navigating financial restrictions, the move is structured as a loan with an option—not an obligation—to buy. This model gives Barca flexibility and allows them to monitor Rashford’s performances across the campaign before committing to a full transfer.
A major sticking point, however, could be Rashford’s £325,000-a-week salary. Barcelona are understood to be negotiating a split-payment arrangement, with discussions ongoing over how much of the wage burden each club will carry.
United Fans Divided
While the deal appears close, reaction from Manchester United supporters has been sharply divided. For some, a temporary exit feels like déjà vu—another expensive star leaving on loan rather than being sold outright.
A Chelsea fan, @TheBlueDodger, weighed in:
“Loan and buy option? No chance they buy him at the end of it. United in the mud again.”
Others focused on the salary relief:
“At least they’ll take his wages off broke United,” posted @BasilsFavour.
@smiler_wilts added: “Wages off, win-win.”
Some fans remain cautiously optimistic:
“If he does well at Barcelona, they’ll most likely sign him. Let’s be real—no club was going to buy Rashford with the wages he’s on,” said @Jordz67.
One supporter even referenced fellow Red Devils winger Antony, writing:
“If Antony smashed it in La Liga, then Rashford also does,” – @Ayabong81838348.
Rashford, 27, scored just six goals in all competitions last season and struggled for form throughout. The move offers him the chance to rediscover his spark at a club known for giving attacking players creative freedom. It also allows United to shift part of his hefty salary while making room for new attacking additions.
Amorim’s Overhaul Continues
Rashford’s exit forms part of a wider shake-up at Old Trafford as Amorim continues reshaping the squad. United have already completed the signing of Brazilian forward Matheus Cunha and are close to finalizing a big-money deal for Brentford’s Bryan Mbeumo.
Meanwhile, the club is actively working on outgoings. Jadon Sancho, Antony, and Alejandro Garnacho are all reportedly available for the right price as United look to streamline their attack.
Whether Rashford’s move becomes permanent may depend on his ability to thrive in Spain. But for now, he’ll look to seize this second chance—and potentially turn doubters into believers.
