Manchester United propose a bold swap deal involving a key Barcelona star as Premier League giants push for a sensational exchange.
The La Liga leaders, thrilled by his Champions League impact amid spells of inconsistency, refuse to pay the €30 million clause outright and have floated a player exchange to sweeten negotiations.
United’s interest in bolstering midfield aligns perfectly, turning Rashford’s Old Trafford exit into potential two-way business.
That forward is Marcus Rashford, the 28-year-old England star who’s contributed nine goals/assists in UCL play during his loan, helping Barcelona storm to top-eight security versus Copenhagen.
Hansi Flick raves about his “speed, finishing, control,” but FFP realities demand a workaround—enter Marc Casadó, the 22-year-old La Masia midfielder Barcelona offered as trade bait.
Casadó’s bench role deepens with Gavi’s imminent return, making him expendable despite prior United enquiries this month.
The Touchline’s exclusive reveals Barça’s pitch: Casadó plus cash (or reduced fee) for Rashford’s permanent signature.
Manchester United, eyeing Casadó as Casemiro successor amid his Saudi-bound exit, previously sounded out the Busquets-esque pivot now valued at €22 million—below Rashford’s clause.
Atlético Madrid lurk too, but this swap tantalises: United gain youth and control; Barça lock in proven firepower cheaply.
Rashford’s Camp Nou renaissance—seven goals, eight assists in 28 games—contrasts Old Trafford exile post-Aston Villa loan.
Flick’s system unleashes him; United, under interim Michael Carrick, prioritise squad overhaul.
Barcelona hold leverage via the €30m option but craves fiscal wriggle room amid Dubai deals and FFP fights.
Marc Casadó’s limited 19 outings (four full 90s) signal exit readiness; Rashford’s sale funds rebuild. Swap sagas rarely succeed cleanly, yet mutual needs align.
The Premier League meets La Liga—Old Trafford’s loss could be Camp Nou’s calculated gain.
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