Written by Megan Taylor, sports reporter covering international sports since 2020

Marcus Rashford transfer questions are set to hang over the summer window as Manchester United look for a permanent solution while the forward prepares for England’s World Cup opener against Croatia on 17 June in Dallas.

The 28-year-old remains in limbo after loan spells at Aston Villa and Barcelona, with his Old Trafford future still uncertain despite Ruben Amorim leaving and Michael Carrick taking over as Manchester United head coach.

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Barcelona Move Remains Complicated

Rashford’s preferred outcome is understood to be a permanent move to Barcelona after a strong spell under Hansi Flick last season.

“I am not a magician but if I was, I would stay,” Rashford said after scoring against Real Madrid on 10 May. “We will see.”

Barcelona’s position remains unclear, especially after the arrival of Anthony Gordon from Newcastle United.

Manchester United are expected to seek a £26 million permanent fee, but Rashford’s £17.5 million yearly salary makes any deal difficult.

United Future Looks Closed

There appears to be little route back at Manchester United, with Sir Jim Ratcliffe, Jason Wilcox and Omar Berrada all part of the football structure now shaping the club’s next phase.

A loan could still happen, but any club taking Rashford would likely need to cover all or most of his wage.

Arsenal may be an option if Rashford is open to London, while Liverpool, Aston Villa and another move abroad have also been discussed.

Paris Saint-Germain have admired him before, but their left side is currently led by Khvicha Kvaratskhelia. Bayern Munich and Real Madrid also have established stars in Luis Díaz and Vinícius Júnior.

A strong World Cup could change the market around Rashford quickly. Official club updates are available through the Manchester United website.