PSG explore swap deal as Rashford prioritises Barcelona stay

January 16, 2026 Oliver Obel

Marcus Rashford’s future remains one of the more complex transfer questions taking shape across Europe, with interest building from multiple directions and no clear resolution in sight.

While his performances away from Manchester United have strengthened his standing, financial constraints, player preference, and competing suitors mean any permanent decision is still some way off.

PSG keep long-standing interest alive

Paris Saint-Germain remain among the clubs monitoring Rashford’s situation closely. The Ligue 1 champions have admired the England forward for several years and have recently explored creative ways to position themselves should an opportunity arise.

Reporting from Caught Offside suggests PSG have sounded out the possibility of a swap arrangement involving Bradley Barcola. The France international has featured 24 times across competitions this season and continues to attract attention from Premier League sides including Liverpool and Arsenal.

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Such a proposal, however, appears unlikely to progress. The same report indicates Rashford has little interest in a move to France, effectively ruling PSG out unless circumstances change significantly.

Barcelona face financial balancing act

For now, Rashford’s focus remains in Spain. The forward is spending the season on loan at Barcelona and has established himself as a central figure in Hansi Flick’s attack, contributing seven goals and 11 assists in 27 appearances.

Talks have already begun over a permanent transfer. talkSPORT reports that Barcelona have opened discussions with Manchester United, with Rashford’s valuation set at around €30 million (£26m).

That price presents a challenge. Barcelona’s well-documented financial pressures mean the club are reluctant to activate the option outright. Instead, they are exploring alternative structures that would ease the immediate burden.

One solution under consideration is a further loan arrangement for the 2026/27 season, potentially including a conditional obligation to buy at a later date, according to talkSPORT.

Player preference complicates negotiations

Rashford’s own stance adds another layer of complexity. Caught Offside reports that he views his time at Barcelona as a priority and has little desire to return to the Premier League in the near future.

Manchester United’s ongoing rebuild is said to have reinforced that position, with the player keen to continue his career abroad if possible. That preference could narrow United’s leverage should Barcelona remain unable to meet their valuation.

Atletico Madrid are also keeping an eye on developments, with Rashford reportedly seen as a natural fit for Diego Simeone’s system, though no formal approach has been made.

Early success strengthens his hand

On the pitch, Rashford has already collected his first piece of silverware with Barcelona. The club edged Real Madrid 3–2 in the Supercopa final, securing their first trophy of the 2025–26 campaign.

Introduced late in the match, Rashford later reflected on the achievement. “Very happy today. It's always the best feeling to win the first trophy,” he said.

“I hope now for the rest of the season we can go on to win some more.”

With momentum on the field and interest off it, Rashford’s next step looks set to remain a central storyline as the transfer picture continues to evolve.

Sources: talkSPORT, Caught Offside