Rashford targets Barcelona as Flick backs Perišić

Marcus Rashford wants to continue his career in Spain this summer. According to ESPN, the English star’s number one goal this summer is to sign for Barcelona. Having spent the second half of the 2024/25 season on loan at Aston Villa, Rashford seems to have largely left his future in England behind.

According to Sky Sports, Manchester United are ready to put the player up for sale this summer, and the requested transfer fee is approximately £40 million. Aston Villa have shown no intention to sign the player permanently.

In the 2024/25 season, Marcus Rashford played a total of 41 official matches for Manchester United and Aston Villa. During this period, he recorded 11 goals and 10 assists, hitting double figures in goal contributions. His form especially stood out in the early stages after being loaned to Aston Villa. However, he was sidelined for the final weeks of the season due to a hamstring injury. Rashford is currently continuing his individual training in Marbella, aiming not only to stay physically fit but also to send a message during the transfer process.

The coaching staff turned to a different target

Barcelona have not completely closed the door on Rashford. However, according to Mundo Deportivo, head coach Hansi Flick’s priority is currently shaped around veteran winger Ivan Perišić. The 36-year-old Croatian footballer will become a free agent at the end of June after a successful season at PSV Eindhoven. The same report notes that PSV have offered Perišić a new two-year contract, but the player has not clarified his decision yet. Perišić, who previously worked with Flick at Bayern Munich, is seen as an option who, with his versatility and tactical discipline, could fit into Barcelona’s financial structure. Ivan Perišić played 39 official matches for PSV Eindhoven this season and delivered an impressive performance with 16 goals and 11 assists.

Financial considerations impact Rashford’s chances

Rashford’s ability to play both on the wing and up front makes him a tactically flexible solution. His transfer fee being more accessible compared to players like Luis Díaz or Nico Williams is also a theoretical advantage. Liverpool are demanding around €70 million for Díaz, which is why the Barcelona board are instead targeting low-cost or free-agent players, according to AS newspaper.

Under these conditions, Rashford’s transfer has fallen behind in the priority list. The fact that the coaching staff’s initial requests are players like Perišić, who are more accessible, reduces the likelihood of a clear development for the English star in the short term.

The final decision will be determined by time and market dynamics

Barcelona want to begin the 2025/26 season with a deeper attacking rotation. They are looking for a reliable and competitive alternative who can fill the backup roles behind key names like Lamine Yamal and Raphinha. Rashford offers a profile that can technically meet this role. However, the decision is shaped not only by talent but also by market conditions, budget realities, and the head coach’s priorities.

The wait continues for Marcus Rashford. The Barcelona board do not appear likely to act flexibly in transfer negotiations. The English player knows that talent alone won’t determine the transfer decision — timing and strategy matter as well. For now, all eyes are on Flick’s preferences, the board’s budget manoeuvres, and the opportunities that may arise during the summer.