Marcus Rashford Exit: Why Arsenal and Barcelona Are Watching Man Utd’s England Star

Rashford, 28, returned to United this summer after Barcelona decided against making his loan move permanent. The forward had spent last season in Spain, but the Catalan club ultimately chose not to trigger the option to sign him permanently.

The latest developments have put Rashford's future back under the spotlight with the transfer deadline approaching.

The Rashford Transfer Domino

United's willingness to consider an exit could create an intriguing late-window race involving two clubs with very different motivations.

Arsenal's interest has become particularly relevant following Gabriel Martinelli's departure to Al Hilal. Reports suggest the Gunners could consider Rashford as an alternative attacking option as they continue to work on their forward line.

Why Arsenal Could Make a Late Move

Arsenal's situation has changed significantly in recent days.

Martinelli's impending move has created space on the left side of Mikel Arteta's attack, while the club's pursuit of Atlético Madrid forward Julián Álvarez remains complicated.

Rashford would offer Arsenal a player who already understands the Premier League and can operate from the left, play through the middle or attack from a more central position.

That versatility could make him an attractive alternative if Arsenal's preferred attacking targets prove difficult to secure.

However, his wages remain a major consideration. Rashford is reportedly on around £325,000 a week, a figure that could complicate any permanent move.

Barcelona Still Have a Connection

Barcelona remain an obvious name in the conversation because Rashford spent the previous campaign at the club.

The England forward enjoyed a productive loan spell in Spain, but Barcelona ultimately decided against making the transfer permanent.

A return therefore cannot be ruled out, although recent reporting indicates Barcelona have been focusing their resources elsewhere.

That leaves Rashford's situation particularly interesting: the player already knows the club, but Barcelona's current transfer priorities may determine whether they seriously revisit the deal.

Why Manchester United Are Open to an Exit

United's position reflects the uncertainty surrounding Rashford's place in the squad.

After returning from Barcelona, Rashford has been reintegrated into Michael Carrick's squad and even featured during the opening stages of the new campaign. United, however, are still prepared to consider offers if the right proposal arrives.

The club's decision could also be influenced by its own transfer plans.

United have been attempting to reshape their squad this summer, and moving Rashford's wages off the books could create additional flexibility for further recruitment.

Rashford's Next Move Could Come Late

The England forward's future has become one of the more intriguing stories of the final days of the transfer window.For now, there is no indication that a move is guaranteed.

What is clear is that United are willing to listen, while Arsenal's need for attacking depth has increased and Barcelona remain familiar with Rashford's qualities.

With the deadline approaching, the next few days could determine whether Rashford begins another chapter at Old Trafford—or makes another high-profile move away from Manchester.