Marcus Rashford dealt Barcelona transfer blow

Marcus Rashford has been dealt a blow in his hopes of moving to Barcelona in the summer transfer window.

The Spanish champions have been publicly searching for a new left-winger, with Luis Diaz, Rashford and Nico Williams all targeted, but it's the latter who may get the nod.

Fabrizio Romano reported on X on Thursday morning: "Nico Williams and Barça have agreed personal terms on 6 year deal!

"Agreement sealed on player’s contract until June 2031 with the salary in the region of €7/8m net per season.

"Barça are currently working on financial terms to get deal done with Athletic."

Williams is a hugely talented winger capable of playing both left and right and shone for Spain en route to their Euro 2024 win.

Arsenal were supposedly in for the Athletic Club man but were put off by the financial side of the deal, allowing Barcelona to swoop in.

It leaves Rashford's future even more uncertain. The Manchester United man enjoyed a fruitful spell on loan at Aston Villa in the second half of last season, cut short by injury, with Villa fans quickly taking to the loanee.

Unai Emery would surely have liked to keep the 27-year-old on a permanent deal but Aston Villa's financial situation complicates matters. To abide by profit and sustainability rules, the club may need to sell one or two of its star names, with Emi Martinez, Morgan Rogers and Ollie Watkins all rumoured to be up for sale.

The Red Devils want £40m for Rashford and Villa will be unlikely to commit to such an outlay before balancing the books. Barcelona, too, have an extremely complicated financial situation and it seems impossible the club will sign both Williams and Rashford.

Newcastle are the latest club linked with Rashford, who could deputise on the left or up front while a lucrative move to Saudi Arabia has been mooted.

With no suitor yet found, Rashford is 6/1 to stay at Old Trafford and has a contract at the club until 2028.

Liam Williams

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