Barcelona consider activating the buyout clause on Marcus Rashford

Rashford arrived in Catalonia this summer on loan from United after spending half a season at Aston Villa. Since then, the England forward has become an important part of Hansi Flick’s system, recording 23 appearances, six goals, and nine assists. His displays have impressed the German coach, prompting the club to consider activating his buy-out clause.

In theory, Barcelona could complete a deal worth £26 million, despite Rashford still having two years remaining on his contract at Old Trafford. However, Mundo Deportivo reports that the club’s hierarchy want to further assess his performances once Raphinha returns during the second half of the season.

Last campaign, Raphinha mainly operated on the left wing, where he produced 34 goals and 22 assists in 57 matches, helping the team secure three domestic trophies. This season, Flick has experimented with the Brazilian in a number 10 role to accommodate Rashford, Raphinha, and Yamal in the starting XI.

Flick has openly shown his appreciation for the England international, increasing the likelihood of Rashford remaining at the club. Speaking recently after leaving him on the bench, the Barcelona coach said:

 "I try to speak to every player when they are not selected, and the last time I checked with him he replied to me, 'Boss, you don't have to tell me about your decisions. The most important thing is the team. We have to win the three points. The rest is not that important'.

"This is the perfect mentality. I am so happy to have him. When he is on the bench, he shows that we have a good and deep squad. What I can say is that he is an absolutely professional player. In the beginning, he had to adapt a little bit, but now he is at his best level".

Meanwhile, German reporters claim that Barcelona are working on extending Flick’s contract, which is set to expire in 2026. The club’s leadership have strong belief in his project and are keen to maintain stability, while also supporting Yamal’s development.

This week, Barcelona will face third-placed Villarreal at 10:15 PM tomorrow. Currently sitting top of the table with a four-point lead over Real Madrid, a victory would ensure Barcelona remain in first place at the halfway point of the season.