Man United facing ‘ridiculous’ Marcus Rashford situation after new Barcelona talks revealed
Manchester United could be facing a new blow in their bid to receive a substantial fee for Marcus Rashford.
Rashford joined Barcelona on a season-long loan deal last summer, with the Catalan side holding the option to buy him for around £26million at the end of the campaign.
It is understood Rashford could have to accept a pay cut to join Barcelona permanently due to his £325,000-a-week wages.
GiveMeSport journalist Ben Jacobs reported on Tuesday (13 January) the La Liga giants have held talks with Man United this month about signing Rashford on a permanent deal.
However, he revealed Hansi Flick’s side would prefer not to trigger the option to buy and instead sounded Old Trafford chiefs out over a lower number, while also floating the idea of a second loan with a conditional obligation.
Why Man United are 'over a barrel' in Marcus Rashford talks
Former Man City financial adviser Stefan Borson exclusively told Football Insider Man United are “over a barrel” in the negotiations with Barcelona around Rashford’s future.
Rashford has made it clear he doesn’t want to return to Man United despite Ruben Amorim’s recent sacking.
Speaking exclusively to Football Insider, Borson said: “My question is where do United go with the situation? They're over a barrel really. The player only wants to play for Barcelona.
“I assume Barcelona know that. Barcelona are masters of leveraging the scale of their club and their financial difficulties to get deals that ordinarily other teams wouldn't get. The players just sit tight and wait.
“What are United going to do if they come and say, ‘We'll pay £20m, we're not paying a penny more, or you can have him back?’. What are Manchester United going to do?”
Why Barcelona have 'leverage' in Rashford negotiations
Borson insisted it would be “ridiculous” if Man United were to sell Rashford for lower than Barcelona’s option-to-buy clause.
“It would be ridiculous for the player to be sold for £20m,” said Borson.
“It's already a low fee on the loan. I've not watched enough of him, but he seems to have done okay over there.
“But as I say, it's all about negotiating leverage and Barcelona can just sit tight and say, ‘We just can't afford it, so what do you want to do’?”
Rashford has registered seven goals and 11 assists in 28 appearances for Barcelona this season.
For more Man United and exclusive news, follow us on Facebook or join our brand new WhatsApp Channel for instant updates to be sent straight to your phone.