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What's the story?
Manchester United pair Eric Bailly and Marcus Rashford are the two subjects of a concerted effort from Barcelona to bring them to the club, according to a report in British news outlet, The Daily Star. Ernesto Valverde is still keen on new signings despite the La Liga giants' stellar start to the season, with the Blaugrana reportedly sending scouts to watch the pair in the game against Chelsea. A positive report back has meant that Barcelona may tempt the Red Devils to part with the pair with a massive bid in the region of €200 million, although United are considerably reluctant to let Rashford go.
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In case you didn't know...
Marcus Rashford came through the ranks at Manchester United before making a stunning rise to the first team under Louis van Gaal. Eric Bailly moved to Europe at the tender age of 17, joining RCD Espanyol's youth system, before making his first-team debut three years later in 2014. Villarreal then paid €5.7 million to sign him a year later, where his stellar performances resulted in Manchester United parting with a staggering £30 million to sign him in the summer of 2016.
The heart of the matter
Marcus Rashford might be difficult to prise away from Old Trafford, despite reports of both Barcelona and Real Madrid being interested in signing the explosive young forward. However, if manager Jose Mourinho's rotation of Marcus Rashford with Anthony Martial persists, the youngster is reportedly set to consider his options.
Barcelona's need for Eric Bailly is far more pressing, as the Blaugrana only have Javier Mascherano and Thomas Vermaelen as backup, with both not long for their Nou Camp careers. While Barcelona are willing to offer a staggering €200 million to Manchester United, the Red Devils may only be interested in letting Bailly go, despite the fact that he has been integral to Jose Mourinho's plans when fit.
Also Read: 5 reasons why Marcus Rashford is more talented than Marco Asensio
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Author's Take:
Barcelona were optimistic in their chase of Phillipe Coutinho from Liverpool, but this may be on an entirely different level altogether. The Blaugrana were unable to get a player who was dead set on joining them this summer, and chasing the likes of Rashford is just foolhardy when the player is considered the future of the club. Eric Bailly is a far more viable target and Barcelona should be focussing their efforts on him.
