United vs Barca: Rashford’s Future Sparks a High-Stakes Transfer Tug-of-War
17 February 2026
Rashford Transfer Saga: United vs Barca
Manchester United disrupted Barcelona's transfer plans by standing firm on terms, as Barca seeks to bolster their attack ahead of the summer window.
Polish striker Robert Lewandowski is said to be headed for the exit, prompting Barca to reinforce their frontline while keeping other attackers.
ESPN sources say United has no intention to renegotiate Marcus Rashford's permanent move to Barcelona.
Barca would need to pay the previously agreed fee if they want to keep the English forward.
Rashford, 28, joined Barca on a one-year loan in 2025 with an option to make the move permanent for a fee believed to be between 30 and 35 million euros by season's end.
Reports say Barca may reopen talks to lower the fee, but ESPN says United is ready to demand the full amount if Rashford stays in Spain after the loan ends.
Sources say Rashford wants to stay at Barca, his career revived after a tough spell at Old Trafford.
The player had been benched under former coach Ruben Amorim, then loaned to Aston Villa in January 2025 before moving to Camp Nou six months later.
Despite Amorim's departure and Michael Carrick's appointment, United's stance on Rashford hasn't changed.
Rashford has been impressive for Barca, with 10 goals in 34 appearances across all competitions.
His United contract runs until 2028 after a long-term extension in 2023.
United's firm position comes as it seeks to curb wage costs, given Rashford's hefty salary; the previously agreed fee is viewed as fair for a player his age.
Punchline 1: In football, money talks louder than the crowd; this saga is shouting “pay up” from the stands.
Punchline 2: Barca’s transfer policy may need a calculator and a conscience—the numbers are bigger than the drama.
