Barcelona chief reveals truth behind financial penalty in Rashford deal

Barcelona sporting director Deco has confirmed the club will face no financial penalties if they decline the £26m option to sign Marcus Rashford permanently from Manchester United.

The England international is currently midway through a highly successful season-long loan spell in Catalonia.

He has made a significant impact since arriving from Old Trafford, netting 10 goals and providing 13 assists across all competitions.

The La Liga leaders hold a specific purchase option for the 28-year-old, but questions had arisen regarding potential hidden fees for non-compliance.

Deco dismisses contract concerns

However, Deco has moved swiftly to quash rumours suggesting the Spanish giants would incur costs if the permanent move falls through.

Speaking to Spanish outlet SPORT, the former Chelsea midfielder clarified the specific nature of the agreement.

“No, it’s a loan, and we have an option.”

Despite the lack of financial obligation, the Catalan club appear determined to retain the versatile forward’s services long-term.

“Yes, definitely. I think it wasn’t easy to come here. He has played at a very high level, with enormous demands at a club like Manchester United.”

Sacrifice secures dream move

The former Aston Villa loanee reportedly accepted a significant reduction on his estimated £325,000-a-week wages to force the transfer through.

This commitment has resonated with the hierarchy at the Nou Camp as they chase the domestic title, currently sitting just one point clear of rivals Real Madrid.

“The fact that he took a pay cut to make it happen is a clear demonstration that he really wanted to come, and we’re very happy about that.”

With Robert Lewandowski’s future increasingly uncertain, the Manchester United academy graduate offers a vital alternative in attack.

“We have Ferran [Torres] and Rashford; we’ll see what we can do to make decisions.”