Barcelona schedule England training camp amid Marcus Rashford transfer talks
Barcelona have announced a pre-season training camp at St George’s Park this summer, paving the way for a potential return to English soil for Marcus Rashford if his permanent transfer is finalised.
The Catalan giants will be based at the home of the England national team for a week-long schedule between 27 July and 3 August.
This trip could see the Manchester United forward cross paths with familiar faces, provided a permanent move to Spain is completed before the squad departs.
Stalemate in negotiations
The 28-year-old’s club future currently hangs in the balance following an eye-catching campaign on loan at the Camp Nou.
He contributed 14 goals and 14 assists across 49 appearances, leading head coach Hansi Flick to urge the club hierarchy to secure his signature.
However, there remains no concrete sign that the Spanish outfit will meet Manchester United’s £26m valuation to seal the deal.
Financial questions raised
Reports suggest the Blaugrana are attempting to negotiate a reduced fee, but the Premier League club are firmly holding their ground.
The negotiation process has been further complicated by the recent £70m capture of England winger Anthony Gordon from Newcastle United.
Not only does Gordon provide direct competition on the left flank, but his hefty price tag undermines any arguments that funds are severely restricted in Catalonia.
Return to familiar surroundings
The upcoming English training camp marks a return to a venue the club previously visited during their 2014 and 2016 summer schedules.
“The team will begin training at the Ciutat Esportiva and there will be a preseason stage in England,” a club statement confirmed.
“From July 27 to August 3, the blaugranes will be at St George’s Park, one of the main centres for football in England and a regular base for the England national team.”