This summer’s transfer window is shaping up to be a dramatic one for Marcus Rashford.
After a challenging spell at Manchester United and a loan stint at Aston Villa, the England international is now at the centre of a European tug-of-war—one that sees two football powerhouses going head-to-head.
Juventus Step Up Their Interest in Rashford
Juventus have now made Rashford their top target, according to fresh reports.
The Serie A giants are said to be “accelerating” efforts to secure the 27-year-old forward, eager to revitalise their attacking options.
Under new boss Igor Tudor, Juve are clearly on the hunt for a big-name signing—and Rashford fits the bill.
While United are open to letting him go, they’re reportedly sticking to a £40 million price tag, making the deal far from straightforward.
Barcelona Still Rashford’s Preferred Move
Despite Juventus’ enthusiasm, Rashford has long had his sights set on Spain.
Sources suggest that Barcelona remains his first choice, and the timing might just work in their favour.
The Catalan club recently missed out on their top attacking target, Nico Williams, after he extended his stay at Athletic Bilbao.
That setback has seemingly turned their full attention toward Rashford—and new manager Hansi Flick is believed to be driving the move himself.
Flick Personally Pushing for Rashford Deal
Hansi Flick, who just took the reins at Barça, is reportedly urging the club to move quickly.
According to journalist Matteo Moretto, Flick has asked the board to approve a loan deal with an option to buy Rashford outright next summer.
It’s a strategy that could allow Barcelona to bypass immediate financial strain while still securing a long-term asset.
The Spanish giants had considered Liverpool’s Luis Díaz as another option, but that avenue closed fast when the Reds dismissed any offers.
Villa Loan Spell Gave Rashford a Second Wind
Although Rashford didn’t light up the scoreboard during his short stint at Aston Villa, his performances were enough to prove that his form is returning.
He netted twice in 10 Premier League appearances and showed glimpses of the dynamic forward United fans once adored.
Off the pitch, Rashford has also shared his excitement about potentially linking up with Barcelona’s young star, Lamine Yamal—a partnership he seems genuinely eager to pursue.
Wage Demands Remain a Major Obstacle
While the interest is hot, there’s a cold reality slowing things down: Rashford’s salary.
Earning around £300,000 a week, the forward’s wages are proving to be a major stumbling block—especially for cash-strapped Barça and cautious Juve.
Mail Sport previously reported that Barcelona would only move forward with the deal if United agreed to cover part of those wages, at least during the initial loan spell.
That kind of compromise might be necessary for any progress to be made.
United’s Opportunity to Ease Squad Tensions
For Manchester United, moving Rashford on could do more than just free up the wage bill.
It could help cool internal tensions.
After a turbulent season and plenty of headlines around player dissatisfaction, the club might see this transfer as a way to reset and focus forward.
What Comes Next?
As talks progress behind the scenes, expect things to ramp up in the coming weeks.
Whether Rashford ends up in Turin or Barcelona, one thing’s clear—his future won’t be at Old Trafford.
Now it’s a matter of who can get the deal over the line first—and on whose terms.