Barcelona target Anthony Gordon amid Marcus Rashford transfer doubts
Marcus Rashford’s permanent transfer to Barcelona is in doubt after the Spanish club reportedly opened talks regarding Newcastle United winger Anthony Gordon.
The Manchester United academy graduate is rapidly approaching the conclusion of his loan spell at the Camp Nou.
It was widely expected that the Catalan giants would trigger a £26m option to secure the forward on a permanent deal this summer.
However, reports in Spain suggest that no formal discussions have taken place between the two clubs.
Gordon emerges as potential alternative
Barcelona are now actively scouring the market for alternative left-sided attackers ahead of the upcoming transfer window.
Representatives for Newcastle star Gordon were recently spotted meeting with sporting director Deco and football co-ordinator Bojan Krkic.
The former Everton winger could provide a long-term solution for the La Liga heavyweights, although his £73.5m valuation remains a significant financial hurdle.
Gordon recently linked up with the current Barcelona loanee in the England squad and both are pushing for a regular starting place.
Premier League rivals monitor situation
The 28-year-old has enjoyed a highly productive stint in Spain this season, registering 13 goals and 14 assists across all competitions.
If a permanent move to Catalonia fails to materialise, several other major European sides are preparing to step in.
Arsenal, Tottenham Hotspur and Aston Villa have all been touted as potential destinations should the attacker return to the Premier League.
Bayern Munich are also closely monitoring the situation as the German champions look to bolster their own forward line.
The England international remains contracted to his parent club in Manchester and is expected to return for pre-season training if no deal is agreed.