Manchester United forward Marcus Rashford is on the verge of completing his transfer to Barcelona, according to reports.
The Spanish giants have been Rashford’s preferred destination since he suggested it was time for a new challenge in December after being dropped by head coach Ruben Amorim and been told he was no longer wanted at Manchester United.
According to The Athletic and European transfer expert Fabrizio Romano today, Manchester United and Barcelona have agreed on a loan deal with an option for the Spanish club to buy Rashford at the end of the loan spell.
The Athletic added that Barcelona have agreed to pay Rashford’s full salary during the loan period, with the England international believed to be earning up to £350,000 per week.
Spanish champions Barcelona looked set to sign Spain winger Nico Williams earlier this summer, but the 22-year-old signed a new 10-year contract at Athletic Bilbao instead.
Rashford spent the second half of last season on loan at Aston Villa, where he made 17 appearances across all competitions — scoring four goals and providing six assists.
He is one of five United players — and the highest paid — told to train separately from Amorim’s squad amid a stand-off over their futures.
The 27-year-old does not believe he will play for United again while Amorim is at the club.
Him joining Barcelona would be a big positive for United as they look to strengthen Amorim’s squad.
With more than £130m committed to signing Matheus Cunha and Bryan Mbeumo, further deals have to be funded through departures.