United make dramatic U-turn over 40m transfer as INEOS fear being left humiliated – report

Manchester United have staged a dramatic U-turn over Marcus Rashford, making a surprising decision about his transfer future. For much of last season and into the early summer window, the expectation was clear: Rashford would be sold. In fact, many were convinced Barcelona would sign him permanently after his sparkling loan spell. Across 49 appearances for the Catalan giants, the left winger delivered 14 goals and 14 assists, dazzling Camp Nou with his pace and flair. Barcelona back out of Rashford deal Barcelona had the option to sign him permanently for £26 million, yet they hesitated to commit to that figure. Eventually, they turned their attention to other wide options, notably Karim Adeyemi and Anthony Gordon. Their decision left Rashford returning to Old Trafford, where his future remains uncertain. Although his sale has not been completely ruled out, there is now a genuine chance he stays. Michael Carrick is said to be keen on working with him, and the club are open to reintegrating him, something Rashford himself is said to be comfortable with. Release clause twist Interestingly, while everyone waits to see what will happen, an intriguing claim has emerged. It is worth noting that not too long ago, Rashford’s £40 million release clause, one that would have allowed him to join any Premier League side except Liverpool and Manchester City, expired. Now, if a domestic rival were to want him, they would have to negotiate directly with the Red Devils over a transfer. United block Premier League sale United are relieved no English club activated that clause. According to The i Paper, “There is a reluctance among senior United figures to sell to another English top-flight club, given it could lead to humiliation should Rashford start scoring elsewhere.” As a result, any potential exit now hinges on a European heavyweight stepping forward. Whether such a move materialises remains to be seen. That said, United’s belief that Rashford could deliver a stellar Premier League campaign next season only strengthens the case for keeping him. But if he does remain at Old Trafford, it is now simply a case of wait and see. Featured image Michael Steele via Getty Images The Peoples Person has been one of the world’s leading Man United news sites for over a decade. Follow us on Bluesky: @peoplesperson.bsky.social Daniel Onguko Dan is a writer with The Peoples Person, an avid Manchester United fan whose passion for the Red Devils evolved into writing about them. He was introduced to United back in 2008, and his love for the club has continued to grow ever since. Like every other United fan, he believes the club will soon return to its rightful place and strives to reflect that belief in his writing. While he has also written about other Premier League sides, including Arsenal for Just Arsenal and The Arsenal Analysis Blogspot, Dan lives and breathes Manchester United.