Marcus Rashford and Manchester United seem to have returned to the starting line. Both the player and the club once expected Barcelona to activate a buyout clause worth 26 million pounds after a successful loan period in Catalunya in the 2025-2026 season. However, Blaugrana switched to another target, causing the future of the English striker to fall into uncertainty once again.
The appointment of Michael Carrick, who was once Rashford's teammate, as head coach was initially hoped to open up an opportunity for the 28-year-old striker to reintegrate at Old Trafford. However, things are not that simple.
Currently, all scenarios can happen, from Rashford staying at Man United, continuing to be loaned or officially transferred. Regardless of the direction, his future is likely only decided in the last days of the 2026 summer transfer window.
The "Red Devils" expect Rashford to increase in value after the 2026 World Cup with the England national team. However, competition from Anthony Gordon prevents this striker from taking advantage of opportunities.
Despite scoring in the opening match against Croatia, Rashford quickly lost his starting spot after unconvincing performances against Panama and the DRC. Gordon then took the position on the left wing and became an important factor for England on their journey to the semi-finals.
Rashford closed the tournament with a goal and an assist, achievements not enough to improve his position in the transfer market.
Barcelona has completed the Anthony Gordon deal for £69 million, meaning the possibility of recruiting Rashford is almost over. The £26 million buyout clause has also expired from June 15 and Man United has no intention of renewing.
Rashford's £40 million release clause also expired immediately after the World Cup, forcing all subsequent deals to be renegotiated from the beginning.
Meanwhile, Rashford is said to have refused interest from Fenerbahce and Galatasaray because he still wants to join a team participating in the Champions League.
In the opposite direction, Man United also faced difficulties in the transfer market. The plan to recruit Crysencio Summerville almost collapsed when this player approached Al-Hilal in a £60 million deal.
Rashford's ability to continue playing in the Premier League is also not high as Man United does not want to sell him to direct competitors.
According to British media, the leadership of the Old Trafford team is worried that Rashford's revival in the colors of an opponent will become a "media disaster". Although Tottenham is willing to spend about 40 million pounds, Man United still does not want to sit at the negotiating table.
Arsenal and Chelsea are also said to be monitoring the situation, but have not taken concrete action. Rashford currently receives about 325,000 pounds per week, belonging to the highest-paid players at Old Trafford.
This is the main reason why M.U has difficulty selling this player. Almost no team is willing to meet that treatment, while Rashford himself also refuses less attractive destinations.
In the context of Sir Jim Ratcliffe and INEOS continuing to cut costs, removing Rashford from the salary fund is still a top priority. However, Carrick is said to be willing to give Rashford more opportunities.
With both Man United and Rashford not yet finding the optimal solution, this story is likely to last until the last days of the summer transfer window.
