Front-runner named as PSG race to sign Marcus Rashford from Man United – sources
Barcelona continue to be the hot favourites to sign Marcus Rashford come the end of his loan spell despite heavy interest from PSG.
Rashford is flourishing at Barcelona after a tricky period under Ruben Amorim last season.
The chances of him working permanently under Hansi Flick received a boost after sources told Football Insider that Barcelona opted not to renew Robert Lewandowski’s contract.
Given Rashford looks unlikely to play for Man United ever again, the Blaugrana are preparing to sign him on a permanent basis at the end of the season, whilst fending off interest from other top European clubs.
‘Willingness’ from Barcelona and Rashford to get deal done despite PSG circling
As I revealed on the latest edition of Football Insider’s Inside Track podcast, the Catalan giants remain in “the driving seat” to turn the Englishman’s loan permanent next summer.
It would be in Amorim’s best interest to offload the winger with Rashford’s sale set to boost Man United’s PSR position.
Speaking on the Inside Track podcast over the Blaugrana’s likelihood of beating PSG to his signature, I explained: “I don’t think it [PSG] will have a massive impact.
“Barcelona are still in the driving seat to sign Rashford on a permanent basis.
“They’ve got that £30million option in the initial loan deal to sign Marcus Rashford on a permanent deal and it does seem that there is a willingness from all parties to get a deal done.
“Marcus Rashford is happy at Barcelona having moved away from Manchester United. He has found something of his best form at the Nou Camp.
“He’s got six goals and eight assists in 17 games for Barca. He’s won his place back in the England squad as well now so it looks like he will be part of Thomas Tuchel’s World Cup squad as long as he stays fit.”
Man United to block January exit for Kobbie Mainoo
Another player who could aid the Red Devils’ PSR troubles looks unlikely to force a move out in January.
Former Aston Villa chief scout Mick Brown exclusively told Football Insider that Man United will block an exit for Kobbie Mainoo in the January transfer window.
The Englishman has been extremely frustrated with his lack of minutes, especially ahead of the 2026 World Cup.
The number 37 has played second fiddle to Bruno Fernandes and Casemiro all season, yet, even a short-term loan is set to be off-bounds, condemning him to a possible second half of the campaign rooted to the bench.