Barcelona's interest in re-signing Marcus Rashford has not been extinguished by their agreement to bring Anthony Gordon to the club from Newcastle United — and every option regarding the Manchester United forward remains open, according to Sky Sports News.
Speculation had mounted that the £69.3m deal for Gordon represented a direct replacement for Rashford, but Sky Sports News has confirmed that assessment is wide of the mark. Barcelona retain the right to exercise a £26m (€30m) option to buy Rashford permanently, with the deadline set for June 15. The Spanish club are also still exploring a further loan arrangement, largely because Manchester United have refused to budge on the option fee and are not prepared to renegotiate the figure.
Alvarez the next big target
With the Gordon transfer nearing completion — subject to a medical — Barcelona are expected to shift their attention immediately toward Atletico Madrid striker Julian Alvarez. Sky Sports News had previously reported on Alvarez's desire to move to the Catalan club, though Atletico value their Argentine forward at as much as £130m (€150m).
A first approach from Barcelona has reportedly been lodged — an informal offer worth £61m (€70m) plus Ferran Torres — and Atletico rejected it outright. A formal, cash-only bid is now anticipated. Barcelona's stronger financial position this summer, boosted by their LaLiga title triumph over Real Madrid, has given the club room to pursue a winger, a striker, and a centre-back. The outcome of the Alvarez pursuit may yet have indirect consequences for Rashford's future.
Rashford's impressive loan record
Rashford contributed 28 goals and assists across all competitions during his loan spell, playing a key role as Barcelona dethroned Real Madrid to win LaLiga. That form has kept interest alive from multiple clubs.
Should Barcelona and Manchester United fail to reach a permanent agreement, United are confident the forward could command a higher fee from another club — particularly if he excels at the FIFA World Cup 2026 with England, where he will compete with Gordon for the left-wing berth.
If no permanent move is arranged before or after the tournament, Rashford would return to Carrington. Yet sources close to the situation have indicated to Sky Sports News that all parties — the player, his representatives, and Manchester United — are working toward securing a permanent departure from Old Trafford, and that his time in a United shirt is widely expected to be over.
