Barcelona prepared to sign Marcus Rashford but reluctant to meet Man United’s £40m price tag | OneFootball

Barcelona are reportedly prepared to make a move for Manchester United forward Marcus Rashford but his £40m price tag poses a major hurdle.

Rashford joined Aston Villa on loan in January after falling out of favour under Ruben Amorim. The United head coach constantly left him out of his matchday squads, citing training and selection reasons, although speculation remained rife that there was a lot more to the story.

The player was linked to a number of clubs during the winter transfer window including Barcelona – who are believed to have been his preferred transfer destination – but the Blaugrana never made a concrete effort to sign him and so, he ended up at Villa.

Rashford has enjoyed an uptick in form at Villa, who retain the option of making his stay a permanent one for £40m. The Birmingham outfit have yet to make a final decision regarding whether or not they will keep the 27-year-old.

Meanwhile, Rashford has not given up hope of sealing a switch to Camp Nou. A recent report covered by The Peoples Person relayed that the Carrington academy graduate is even prepared to take a wage cut to be added to Hansi Flick’s ranks.

Now, The i Paper reveals that Barcelona are prepared to make Rashford’s dreams a reality but on one condition – United reduce their asking price.

It’s understood the Catalan giants are “unwilling to pay” the £40m option-to-buy United agreed with Villa.

Pete Hall explains, “Sources in Spain insisted Barcelona are aware of United’s position [financial difficulties], and that will affect how they approach any negotiations.”

“The La Liga leaders are short of cash themselves, but the reduced transfer fee they believe could persuade United to let Rashford go gives them a little more leeway in contract negotiations, as does the player’s preference of club.”

Barcelona appreciate Rashford’s versatility and view him as a player with the attributes they desire –  a forward capable of playing in wide positions as well as leading the attack.

The England international is currently injured and is unlikely to play any further this term.

Talks between United and Villa are underway to determine whether it would be wise to cut short his loan move if there is no chance he will regain full match fitness in the coming weeks.

Featured image Alex Pantling via Getty Images

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