Marcus Rashford is not expected to remain at Manchester United beyond the summer transfer window and his dream of signing for Barcelona has been handed a major boost.

Rashford, 27, spent the second half of the 2024/25 season on loan at Aston Villa, scoring four goals and providing six assists in 17 matches. Villa have the option to sign the forwarf in a permanent deal worth £40million, but Rashford is desperate to play in the Champions League and a move to Barcelona is gathering momentum.

Hansi Flick's side want to strengthen their attack and have identified Rashford as an option. But Barcelona are not just looking at the United forward and have made an approach for Liverpool's Luis Diaz.

However, according to The Athletic, Liverpool have rejected Barcelona's proposal and told the La Liga side that Diaz is not for sale. Arne Slot is planning to include Diaz, who has two years left on his contract, in his squad for the new season, as the Reds look to defend the Premier League title.

With Diaz off the table, Rashford's hopes of signing for Barcelona appear to have been strengthened as the Catalan club's shortlist has narrowed. They might now need to streamline their focus on getting Rashford as Diaz has become a non-option, leaving the path clear for the England international to make the move to Spain.

It's a move that would make sense. Although Raphinha has impressed when used from the left-hand side, his best position is in the No.10 role or out on the right. Although Lamine Yamal has the right wing berth locked, there is wiggle room for Raphinha to move into the central attacking midfield role next season.

That would leave space for Rashford to fill on the left, while he can also be used down the middle when required. Robert Lewandowski is set to turn 37 in August and he might be needed as back-up to the experienced Pole, who struggled with injuries and fitness issues near the end of the campaign.

As for Rashford himself, he could benefit from a change of climate and testing himself out in a new league. His United teammate Antony flourished at Real Betis during the second half of the season and Rashford could make a similar impact at Barcelona in La Liga and the Champions League.

Last week, Barcelona sporting director Deco said the club were in the market for "two, three or four signings", without needing to enter the market "like crazy" thanks to a solid base.

And when asked if Barcelona's plans included the option of signing Rashford, or Liverpool forward Diaz, he added: "We have been focusing on renewing contracts, after that, we'll discuss players to come.

"Of course, these two players, like you mentioned, they are good but have contracts in their clubs, so we won't speak because it's not fair. But when you decide to go to the market, for sure, we find some names. In my opinion, we don't need to bring many players."

Deco continued: "When I speak with the agents of the players, everyone wants to come or stay. So this is important. The image of the club is still good. We are proud because Barcelona is still such a big club, and the way we are playing football makes players want to come."

Barcelona are not able to spend a huge amount on signing players due to their troubling financial situation, but getting Rashford for £40m would represent an astute piece of business.

If Rashford is holding out hope for a move to Barcelona, Liverpool's decision to reject their offer for Diaz will be very welcome news indeed for the United forward.

Get United transfer news and updates on WhatsApp!

Our team of Manchester United experts are on top of all the goings-on at Old Trafford for this week and beyond, and you can get the latest team news, injury updates, reaction and analysis along with inside information to your phone by joining our new free WhatsApp community. You can also join the 50,000 (and growing!) band of United fans who are following our WhatsApp Channel.

Sign up to our community here, and join our WhatsApp channel here.

--

We also treat our community members to special offers, promotions, and adverts from us and our partners. If you don’t like our community, you can check out any time you like. If you’re curious, you can read our Privacy Notice.