Barcelona ready to trigger Rashford buy option

February 8, 2026 Oliver Obel

Marcus Rashford’s season in Spain is increasingly being treated inside Barcelona as more than a temporary stay. After months of uncertainty surrounding his long-term future, the expectation now is that the forward will remain at the club beyond this campaign.

Rashford arrived from Manchester United last summer on loan, and his impact has been immediate. Barcelona sit top of La Liga after 22 matches, and the England international has played a central role in that run.

A pragmatic signing that delivered

Barcelona’s interest in Rashford was initially driven as much by economics as ambition. Reporting from Spanish outlet SPORT indicated the club viewed him as a more affordable option after assessing higher-cost targets such as Luis Díaz and Nico Williams.

What began as a calculated move has turned into a sporting success. Rashford has produced 10 goals and 13 assists in 33 appearances across all competitions, offering consistency and versatility in Hansi Flick’s attacking setup.

Rather than serving as short-term cover, he has become one of Flick’s most reliable attacking outlets.

Buy clause expected to be used

That form has accelerated internal planning. According to SPORT, Barcelona are preparing to activate the €30 million (£28 million) purchase option written into Rashford’s loan agreement with Manchester United.

The report describes the transfer as awaiting formal confirmation, with no indication that Barcelona intend to reopen negotiations. If completed, Rashford would sign a three-year contract with the club.

While alternative scenarios including extending the loan were previously discussed, the current terms are now viewed as acceptable.

Financial limits shape the deal

Barcelona’s ongoing financial restrictions remain a backdrop to every major decision, but the Rashford transfer is considered workable within La Liga’s salary regulations.

SPORT reports that the move has been helped by Rashford’s willingness to accept revised personal terms, reducing what he was previously set to earn at United. That adjustment has made the deal viable without forcing wider squad compromises.

Any further movement on the fee, the outlet adds, would likely depend on United showing interest in players Barcelona no longer see as part of their plans.

Comfortable fit in the dressing room

Off the pitch, Rashford has made little secret of his satisfaction. He has described the experience as “amazing” and said it is a “huge honour” to represent “the biggest club in Spain”.

Internally, the response has been equally positive. SPORT reported that Rashford has settled quickly and earned the respect of teammates, while sporting director Deco said the club is “happy with him” and encouraged by how much he has contributed.

His continued presence would also clarify Barcelona’s summer priorities. With Rashford expected to remain, attention is likely to turn to reinforcing defence and adding a striker, while loanees such as Virgili and Ansu Fati are not expected to feature in long-term plans.

Sources: SPORT