Marcus Rashford Man United exit path opens as dream transfer update emerges

Marcus Rashford is not expected to remain at Manchester United beyond the summer transfer window and his dream of signing for Barcelona has been handed a major boost.

Rashford, 27, spent the second half of the 2024/25 season on loan at Aston Villa, scoring four goals and providing six assists in 17 matches. Villa have the option to sign the forwarf in a permanent deal worth £40million, but Rashford is desperate to play in the Champions League and a move to Barcelona is gathering momentum.

Hansi Flick's side want to strengthen their attack and have identified Rashford as an option. But Barcelona are not just looking at the United forward and have made an approach for Liverpool's Luis Diaz.

However, according to The Athletic, Liverpool have rejected Barcelona's proposal and told the La Liga side that Diaz is not for sale. Arne Slot is planning to include Diaz, who has two years left on his contract, in his squad for the new season, as the Reds look to defend the Premier League title.

With Diaz off the table, Rashford's hopes of signing for Barcelona appear to have been strengthened as the Catalan club's shortlist has narrowed. They might now need to streamline their focus on getting Rashford as Diaz has become a non-option, leaving the path clear for the England international to make the move to Spain.

It's a move that would make sense. Although Raphinha has impressed when used from the left-hand side, his best position is in the No.10 role or out on the right. Although Lamine Yamal has the right wing berth locked, there is wiggle room for Raphinha to move into the central attacking midfield role next season.

That would leave space for Rashford to fill on the left, while he can also be used down the middle when