Barcelona speak out on Marcus Rashford deal after exploring alternatives for Man Utd star

Barcelona sporting director Deco says ‘now is not the right time’ to activate their option to sign Marcus Rashford permanently from Manchester United.

Rashford joined the Catalan giants on a season-long loan deal last summer and has enjoyed an impressive return to form after two underwhelming campaigns back in Manchester.

While not always a guaranteed starter given the wealth of attacking talent at Hansi Flick’s disposal, the 28-year-old has scored 10 goals and provided 13 assists in 38 appearances.

Barcelona have the option to make Rashford’s stay a permanent one at the end of the season for €30million (£26m). While the England international is keen to make that happen, nothing has been finalised from Barcelona’s end.

Reports in Spain have speculated the La Liga giants may try to negotiate a lower fee with United – something the Premier League club will not consider.

It has also been suggested Barcelona will seek another loan deal next season before pulling the trigger on any permanent arrangement, something else United would swiftly dismiss.

Reports have also claimed Barcelona are considering alternative options with Chelsea’s Pedro Neto and Benfica star Andreas Schjelderup named as two possible options.

Deco has reiterated Barcelona’s hopes to sign Rashford outright at the end of the season, but warned there are a number of factors still at play before it can be finalised.

‘We have a clear vision regarding Rashford, and we know what needed to be done for him to stay,’ Deco said.

‘But the matter is related to Financial Fair Play, priorities, performance, and evaluation with the coach. It’s something we haven’t done yet because it’s not the right time.’

Michael Carrick, who played alongside Rashford for three seasons at United, is thought to be keen for the forward to return to United this summer should he be given the full-time job at Old Trafford.

But reports in Spain suggest Rashford is keen on a clean break.