Barcelona finally break their silence about Marcus Rashford

Barcelona's sporting director, Deco, has finally addressed the swirling speculation linking Manchester United forward Marcus Rashford with a potential move to Camp Nou. The talented attacker's future at Old Trafford looks tenuous, particularly after he was loaned out to Aston Villa in January in a bid to revitalize his career. Despite flashes of impressive form at Villa Park, it appears the £40 million buy option included in his loan agreement is unlikely to be exercised by the Birmingham club.

The 27-year-old is reportedly keen on joining a club competing in the Champions League, with Barcelona emerging as his favored destination. Following Aston Villa's defeat at Old Trafford on the final day of the season, manager Unai Emery's side failed to secure Champions League qualification, leaving Rashford to seek elite European football elsewhere.

In an interview with BBC Sport, Deco weighed in on the ongoing transfer rumors, including those concerning Rashford. The Barcelona director affirmed the club's commitment to retaining their key players, stating they "will not sell our best players." He also outlined Barcelona's modest transfer aspirations for the summer, aiming for "two, three or four signings" without the need for a major spending spree, thanks to the club's solid underlying structure.

Barça will focus on renewing contracts first

When directly questioned about whether Barcelona's summer plans included targets like Rashford or Liverpool's Luis Diaz, Deco maintained a respectful stance. "We have been focusing on renewing contracts, after that, we'll discuss players to come," he explained. He added, "Of course, these two players... they are good but have contracts in their clubs, so we won't speak because it's not fair. But when you decide to go to the market, for sure, we find some names. In my opinion, we don't need to bring many players."

Deco further elaborated on Barcelona's enduring appeal to top talent, noting, "When I speak with the agents of the players, everyone wants to come or stay. So this is important. The image of the club is still good." He expressed pride that "Barcelona is still such a big club, and the way we are playing football makes players want to come."

While Deco sought to downplay any suggestions of severe financial difficulties, he conceded that Barcelona must operate with strategic prudence in the transfer market. This strategic approach could position Marcus Rashford as an attractive acquisition, especially if his market value aligns with the reported £40 million price tag this summer—a figure potentially modest for a player capable of world-class performances at his peak.