Manchester United weigh up selling Marcus Rashford for cut-price fee amid interest from Barcelona: Reports

Manchester United are reportedly considering cashing in on Marcus Rashford amid interest from Barcelona in the English forward. The Red Devils are contemplating parting with their academy graduate despite him signing a new long-term deal last summer.

Spanish outlet Todo Fichajes reports that Rashford could be available for just €60 million. They have lowered their initial €100 million valuation of the 60-cap England international who missed out on a place at Euro 2024.

Barcelona are keeping tabs on Rashford, 26, despite a concerning 2023-24 season in front of goal. He managed just eight goals and five assists in 43 games across competitions but has long been a key member of the Manchester United first team.

Rashford's contract expires in June 2028, but he's continuously linked with a departure. He's been at Old Trafford his entire career, registering 131 goals and 65 assists in 402 games across competitions.

The Englishman could be viewed as a replacement for Joao Felix amid the Portuguese attacker's loan spell expiring. He's set to return to parent club Atletico Madrid at this month's end unless Barca make another offer.

Rashford insisted he was committed to Manchester United earlier this year when his professionalism was scrutinized. He hit out at critics:

"I’m not a perfect person. When I make a mistake, I’ll be the first one to put my hand up and say that I need to do better. But if you ever question my commitment to Man United, that’s when I have to speak up."

Ten Hag constantly backed Rashford, but his inconsistent performances have drawn debate among fans. A potential exit would be a significant sign of a new era under INEOS' co-ownership. Former Barcelona manager Xavi waxed lyrical about the forward a year before his exit at the end of this season.

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Manchester United icon Rio Ferdinand admitted he'd consider selling Barcelona target Marcus Rashford

Rio Ferdinand wants to talk to Marcus Rashford.

Rio Ferdinand gave an interesting response when asked about Marcus Rashford's situation at Manchester United. The legendary former Red Devils defender was asked whether he'd keep or sell the attacker:

"Interesting one, I think I need to talk to Rashford and find out where his heads at, what he wants to do, what's been the reason for downturn in performances. If I get the right answer I'll keep him, if I don't like what I hear then I'll let him go.

Marcus Rashford was at his scintillating best in the 2022-23 season when Ten Hag first arrived at Old Trafford. He managed a career-best tally of 30 goals and 10 assists in 56 games across competitions. A move to Barcelona could help him reignite his career in a new setting away from the UK media.