Barcelona are reportedly eyeing a move for Marcus Rashford and could offer Raphinha in exchange for the Manchester United star.
A report from Italian outlet Calcio Mercato suggests Barcelona are plotting a swap deal with Manchester United to sign Marcus Rashford. The Catalans are reportedly willing to throw 26-year-old attacker Raphinha in the mix, but on the outside this deal seems unlikely.
Marcus Rashford has had problems this season, as the winger has regressed in a big way with his performances. The Manchester United star has struggled for relevance after scoring just twice in 14 games in the Premier League this term.
The first came against Arsenal in a 3-1 loss at the Emirates, while the second arrived as a gift from the penalty spot against Everton. His recent performance against Newcastle United saw Erik ten Hag drop the forward for their midweek win over Chelsea.
It’s a clear sign from the Manchester United boss to take Rashford from the firing line and give him a breather. That decision from the Dutchman has given rise to transfer speculation that has seen this particular outlet link the winger with a move to Barcelona.
Rashford has received plenty of criticism from pundits and experts alike, but he remains an integral part of Manchester United. He recently signed a new lucrative deal for the long-term future, with Ten Hag continually finding ways to support his star forward.
As for the Barcelona links, the report states they are willing to offer 26-year-old attacker Raphinha in exchange for Rashford. As his numbers suggest, the Brazilian has had a difficult period in Catalonia. But his impact is more potent for Xavi Hernandez when compared to Rashford’s for Manchester United.
Barcelona had fought hard with rivals to sign the 26-year-old attacker in the summer of 2022 and might need help to sell him. Their squad needs to have the required depth, and with mounting injuries, Raphinha might have a more significant role to play this season. Some reports suggested Barcelona might consider selling him for £40-50 million, but that may not materialise.
Raphinha also has Saudi interest, which seems connected with a potential big offer to solve Barcelona’s financial troubles. Xavi rates the Brazilian relatively highly and will not consider selling him in the immediate future.
The same goes for Manchester United and Rashford, as the club values the academy star and sees a future together in the long term.
