Manchester United have a huge summer window on their hands with INEOS looking to raise as much money as possible for Ruben Amorim to reinvest into the squad.
This plan means quite a few big-name stars are expected to be let go, including Marcus Rashford, who spent the last six months on loan at Aston Villa.
The Birmingham-based side had the option of converting his temporary stint into a permanent one for £40 million but following their loss against the Red Devils last Sunday, Unai Emery’s men failed to qualify for the Champions League.
As a result, they can no longer afford the Mancunian’s asking price and wages and the player himself revealed in a social media post that he was leaving Villa.
Marcus Rashford wants Barcelona move
It has been a dream for the Englishman to play for Barcelona, and the Catalans are in touch with his camp over a summer move but they are hoping for a loan deal with an option to buy.
INEOS might not be too pleased, which is why Spanish reports (via F365) have suggested that the 20-time English league champions could ask for a straight player swap instead.
United have Ronald Araujo and Fermin Lopez on their radar, and Hansi Flick and Deco will be open to the Uruguayan’s departure but do not want to lose the Spaniard.
“Barça continues to closely monitor Marcus Rashford’s situation, and he’s one of the options Joan Laporta and Deco have on their radar to bolster their attack.
“The Red Devils have already warned that they will only let the 27-year-old leave if they receive compensation close to €50 million in return, although they would be willing to accept a player swap.
Swap deal on the cards
“And they’ve put two star players on the table who the Portuguese coach really likes, but who aren’t playing a significant role in Hans-Dieter Flick’s systems, which could help bring him to Barcelona for free.
“The first is Ronald Araújo, who will almost certainly say goodbye after losing his starting spot and becoming the last option in the defensive rotation. United would also accept a swap deal between Fermín López and Rashford.”
Lopez would be a fine choice while Araujo remains error-prone. In reality, United would prefer a cash deal instead of a player swap.
It will be interesting to see what happens with the Carrington graduate in the summer. There is also interest from Paris Saint-Germain.
Feature image Michael Regan via Getty Images
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Ayantan Chowdhury
Ayantan has worked for 10 years in the Indian sports media industry, writing for the biggest newspapers and websites but his heart was always set on writing about his favourite club. Currently an editor at The Peoples Person. You can follow him on X: @ayantanc_25
