Marcus Rashford hopes for a permanent Barcelona transfer this season, but Paris Saint-Germain’s interest complicates his desired move, while Chelsea is poised to block Barcelona’s separate pursuit of Pedro Neto.
According to a report from Football Insider, Rashford is “eager to join Barcelona permanently at the end of the season,” even though strong interest from PSG continues.
The report states that Rashford — now considered highly unlikely to play for Manchester United again — has identified the Catalan club as his top priority.
Sources told Football Insider that Barcelona are reluctant to renew Robert Lewandowski’s contract, which would free up financial resources and create space for Rashford’s arrival.
Meanwhile, under coach Hansi Flick, the club views converting Rashford’s loan into a permanent deal as advantageous for all parties — giving Rashford a fresh start, offering United relief on wage burden, and providing Barcelona with an experienced forward without major transfer fees.
The report suggests that, even with competition from PSG, Barcelona remain “the clear front-runners to sign Rashford,” because of his preferred status, financial feasibility, and the club’s squad restructuring.
If the deal goes through, the move could mark a defining moment in Rashford’s career — and a potentially shrewd, low-risk signing for Barcelona as they look to balance ambition with financial constraints.