Marcus Rashford’s prospects of remaining at Barcelona beyond his loan spell hang in the balance, with the England star potentially returning to Manchester United, according to fresh reports.
The Catalan giants are said to be exploring Chelsea winger Pedro Neto as a potential alternative signing.
The 28-year-old forward’s long-term destination will likely be decided by the outcome of Sunday’s presidential election at the Camp Nou.
Barcelona are currently deliberating whether to make Rashford’s temporary move permanent for £26million this summer.
He has delivered strong performances in La Liga despite struggling in the Premier League last season.
According to Mundo Deportivo, the Spanish club have received “very positive technical reports” on Neto, prompting genuine interest in the Portuguese international as another option for their attacking ranks.
Neto made the switch from Wolverhampton to Stamford Bridge in 2024 in a deal worth £54million.
It remains unclear if Chelsea is willing to part with him.
Marcus Rashford’s prospects of remaining at Barcelona beyond his loan spell hang in the balance
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The 26-year-old has established himself as one of the Blues’ more reliable performers this campaign.
His ability to operate effectively on either flank is particularly attractive to Barcelona manager Hansi Flick, who values tactical flexibility in his wide players.
A potential transfer could be smoothed by the strong working relationship between Neto’s representative, Jorge Mendes, and the Barcelona hierarchy, according to reports from Spain.
Rashford, who sought a fresh start after falling out of favour with Ruben Amorim at Old Trafford, has adapted well to life in Catalonia and is eager to extend his stay.
The Catalan giants are said to be exploring Chelsea winger Pedro Neto as a potential alternative signing
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Current president Joan Laporta reportedly supports making the England international’s transfer permanent should he retain his position following the vote on March 15.
Manchester United have made their stance clear, refusing to budge on the £26million asking price for their academy graduate.
Barcelona are currently covering Rashford’s substantial £315,000-per-week salary during the loan arrangement.
Laporta enters the election as favourite, though challenger Victor Font, backed by former manager Xavi, could alter the situation.
Should Rashford’s permanent switch to Barcelona collapse, Manchester United would face a significant headache bringing him back into the fold
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Should Rashford’s permanent switch to Barcelona collapse, Manchester United would face a significant headache bringing him back into the fold.
The club has committed to reducing its overall wage expenditure, with high earners Casemiro and Jadon Sancho both expected to depart when the summer window opens.
Reintegrating a player on £315,000 weekly would run counter to this cost-cutting strategy.
The presidential race features two additional candidates, Marc Ciria and Xavier Vilajoana, and speculation suggests Laporta’s three opponents could unite to form a coalition, adding further uncertainty to Rashford’s situation.
