Marcus Rashford’s move to Barcelona has turned into one of the biggest success stories of the season. The English forward, who arrived on loan from Manchester United during the summer, has quickly become one of Hansi Flick’s most important players but his future at the club now depends on one major factor: his salary.
Rashford has been in brilliant form since joining the Catalan giants. He has already produced 12 goal contributions in 13 matches, showing the kind of confidence and energy that made him one of the Premier League’s brightest stars a few years ago. Under Flick, he’s been given the freedom to express himself, and the results have been clear for everyone to see.
His performances in the Champions League, especially his brace against Olympiacos, and his standout showing in El Clásico, where he assisted Fermín López, have made him an instant fan favourite. With Raphinha sidelined through injury, Rashford has nailed down the left-wing position and looks completely settled at Camp Nou.
Barcelona’s Financial Request
Barcelona are ready to make the deal permanent, but their financial situation means the club must stay within La Liga’s wage restrictions. Rashford currently earns around £300,000 per week at Manchester United . a figure Barcelona simply can’t sustain.
Reports from Spain claim the club’s board have told Rashford they want him to take a pay cut if he truly wishes to remain in Spain beyond this season. The proposed transfer fee of around £30 million is not an issue, but his wages remain the stumbling block.
Club officials believe that spreading his contract over several years could help ease the pressure on the wage bill, though Rashford would still need to agree to a lower weekly salary.
From Struggles at United to Revival in Spain
Just a few months ago, Rashford’s career looked to be going backwards. After a 30-goal campaign in 2022/23, he fell out with Manchester United manager Rúben Amorim and was eventually frozen out of the squad. A short loan at Aston Villa did little to help, and a permanent exit seemed inevitable.
Barcelona gave him a second chance — and he’s made the most of it. Flick’s system has allowed him to rediscover his sharpness and confidence, giving him the attacking freedom he’d been missing. Rashford himself admitted that he finally feels “comfortable and trusted” again.
Barcelona Want Him Long Term
Barcelona view Rashford as both a sporting and commercial asset. His global appeal, especially across Europe and Africa, adds huge marketing value to the club. And with his performances improving every week, there’s no doubt the Spanish side want to keep him.
Although a few Premier League clubs are monitoring his situation, Rashford’s priority is clear — he wants to stay at Camp Nou. Sources close to the player say he’s willing to reduce his wages if that’s what it takes to secure a permanent deal.
Negotiations between Barcelona and Manchester United are expected to continue in the coming months, with the Catalan side confident they can complete the signing before the end of the season.
The Bigger Picture
For Rashford, this is more than a transfer — it’s a comeback story. After a frustrating spell in Manchester, he’s proving his quality again on one of the biggest stages in football. And if he agrees to Barcelona’s request, his move to Spain could become one of the smartest career decisions he’s ever made.
