Barcelona in 'transfer war' over Man Utd outcast Rashford

Tom Weber

Updated: 18 Jan 2025 14:34 GMT
3 min read

Barcelona are embroiled in a 'transfer war' with Borussia Dortmund over Marcus Rashford, according to Spanish media.

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The Manchester United outcast hasn't played competitive football since December 12 and is on his way out of Old Trafford. Rashford is seeking a 'new challenge,' while his club are keen to get his massive wages off the books and raise 'pure profit.'

So far, talks over a January move have proved difficult even though there is no shortage of suitors. Rashford wants to remain in Europe, but most clubs on the continent can't afford his salary unless Man Utd agree to shoulder a sizeable chunk of the financial outlay.

AC Milan have already ended their pursuit of Rashford, instead favouring a move for Man City captain Kyle Walker. The Rossoneri had to choose one or the other due to post-Brexit Serie A rules only permitting clubs to sign one British player per transfer window.

This leaves Barcelona and Borussia Dortmund as his most active suitors and the two are engaged in a veritable 'war' for his signature.

Barcelona's Rashford war

At least that is according to Sport, which claims that Dortmund presented a formal offer to Rashford on Friday but that the player has yet to make a decision on whether or not to make the move.

It is asserted that the 27-year-old is holding out for his 'preference' Barcelona to offload players so as to be able to make a concrete approach. Barcelona are trying to free up space for Rashford by selling Ansu Fati, but despite being exiled by Hansi Flick, the winger seemingly does not want to leave.

Dortmund are said to have an 'economic advantage' over Barcelona but Rashford remains hopeful that he will eventually be able to wear the famous Blaugrana kit.

Reports from Germany over the week suggested that Dortmund had stepped up their pursuit of Rashford following their embarrassing midweek loss to promoted Holstein Kiel.