Barcelona’s €30 million (£25.5 million) option to sign Marcus Rashford on a permanent deal from Manchester United following his impressive loan spell at Camp Nou has expired. Now, interested bidders will have to pay the £40 million release clause attached to Rashford's current deal to sign him.
Earlier reports had claimed that Rashford wanted to remain at Barcelona so much that he was even willing to take salary cuts. At United, Rashford is among the highest-paid players—an astronomical sum that the cash-strapped Spanish champions cannot dream of meeting.
Given his age and form, the amount is likely to be considered as peanuts by fellow Premier League giants. According to reports, Liverpool are tracking the England international as their new manager Andoni Iraola appreciates him.
Former Red David James also thinks Iraola's wish should be granted by the management, as Rashford is fast, versatile and very much at his best. With Mohamed Salah leaving, Liverpool are reportedly looking to sign Michael Olise as a replacement. Rashford, who can also operate as a centre-forward, could be a great addition for a manager who likes speeding bullets and intense workhorses.
However, a direct Premier League rival getting their prized academy graduate is not a situation that the club want, and they have taken the necessary steps to avoid it. According to The Athletic, the Red Devils have inserted a "rival tax" into Rashford's contract. The agenda is to specifically block fellow English powerhouses Liverpool and Manchester City from signing the 28-year-old by triggering the cut-price fee. His current contract runs until 2028. The details of the "rival tax", however, remains unknown.
Meanwhile, it is also being reported that Manchester United, under Michael Carrick, are willing to welcome Rashford back into the fold. He could still be a squad player for the former champions, who are set to return to the European circuit next season. Rashford is currently with the Three Lions' FIFA World Cup squad and is expected to start against Croatia on Thursday.
