Barcelona Rashford Pursuit Was Secondary as Aston Villa Seized Opportunity reveals Barcelona chief

During the January transfer window, Barcelona considered signing Marcus Rashford but did not prioritize the move, as confirmed by sporting director Deco. Despite Rashford’s reported desire to join the Spanish club, high wages exceeding £325,000 per week hindered the deal. Instead, Manchester United loaned him to Aston Villa, who covered up to 90% of his salary, with a £40 million buy-option included.

Earlier Barcelona explored a potential move for Manchester United’s Marcus Rashford, but club director Deco clarified that he was "not a priority." While Barcelona acknowledged interest in the 27-year-old forward, they were not urgently seeking a signing, and the deal never advanced beyond initial talks.

Reports according to Fabrizio Romano suggested Rashford was open to a move and willing to take a pay cut to facilitate the transfer. However, financial constraints, particularly his £325,000-per-week wages posed a significant obstacle. Instead, Manchester United arranged a loan move to Aston Villa, who agreed to cover 75% of his wages, potentially increasing to 90% through bonuses. The deal includes a £40 million buy-option, a reasonable fee given Rashford’s inconsistent form over the past 18 months.

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Villa manager Unai Emery played a key role in securing Rashford’s move, believing he can help the forward regain the form that saw him excel in the 2022/23 season. Rashford’s statement during his unveiling—"Obviously it’s only short-term I’m here"—suggests he may still seek a move to a top European club in the summer. Whether Barcelona revisits their interest in Rashford at that point remains uncertain, but for now, he is focused on reviving his career under Emery at Villa Park.