Barcelona Initiates Talks for Manchester United Forward Marcus Rashford

Barcelona have officially opened talks with Manchester United for the transfer of Marcus Rashford, with negotiations focusing on a loan deal with an option to buy, while United prefer a permanent sale with a transfer fee around €40-48 million. Rashford is very keen on a move to Barcelona, which may pressure United to accept a loan deal after other clubs' offers are declined. Barcelona's sporting director Deco recently met with Rashford's agent in Barcelona to discuss the potential transfer, as the club seeks to strengthen its attacking options amid challenges with salary limits and difficulties in pursuing other targets like Luis Diaz. Manchester United, eager to offload Rashford and his wages, are holding firm on a transfer fee but may be forced to compromise if Rashford refuses other opportunities. Rashford, who spent the latter half of the previous season on loan at Aston Villa, is understood to be willing to wait for Barcelona to resolve their financial issues and complete the deal. Overall, Rashford is one of four priority attacking targets for Barcelona this summer as they aim to relieve pressure on current forwards.