Barcelona stall on £26m Marcus Rashford transfer from Manchester United
Barcelona have stalled on activating a £26m clause to sign Manchester United loanee Marcus Rashford permanently this summer following a drastic dip in form.
The Catalan club originally secured an option to convert the forward’s temporary stint into a permanent transfer ahead of the upcoming window.
However, mounting uncertainty now surrounds the prospective deal after a highly challenging spell in Spain since the turn of the year.
Form concerns prompt rethink
According to Spanish publication Marca, enthusiasm for retaining the England international has cooled significantly within the boardroom.
The 26-year-old has managed to find the net just twice in his previous 16 appearances for the La Liga giants.
He has consequently struggled to cement a regular starting berth, failing to capitalise on an injury to positional rival Raphinha.
Alternatives considered amid financial constraints
A recent Champions League elimination by Atletico Madrid has reportedly prompted the Barcelona hierarchy to reassess their summer recruitment strategy.
Officials are currently debating whether the funds allocated for the United academy graduate could be better invested in other areas of the squad.
Atletico’s Julian Alvarez has been identified as a potential target, although his reported £175m valuation makes him a significantly more expensive proposition.
Attacking reshuffle on the horizon
The Spanish giants are also bracing for the potential departure of veteran striker Robert Lewandowski.
While a new contract on reduced terms has been tabled, the club are actively exploring succession plans to lead their forward line.
Former Crystal Palace forward Alexander Sorloth has emerged as a strong candidate to fill the impending void.
Manager Hansi Flick is reportedly an admirer of the striker’s technical profile and believes he would slot seamlessly into his tactical system.
Barcelona would reportedly prefer to extend the current loan arrangement for another season to ease their ongoing financial pressures.
However, the Premier League side remain absolutely determined to secure a permanent departure for their player this summer.
