Manchester United are reportedly exploring a bold and unexpected transfer strategy that could see Marcus Rashford included in a player-swap proposal with Paris Saint-Germain (PSG). The potential deal centers around United’s desire to secure one of Europe’s most promising young forwards, while also addressing long-standing questions about Rashford’s future at Old Trafford.
The England international is currently enjoying a productive loan spell at Barcelona, where he has rediscovered his best form after falling out of favor under United head coach Rúben Amorim. Rashford’s revival in Spain has reignited interest in his long-term future, but it has not necessarily brought him closer to a return to Manchester United’s first-team plans.
Rashford’s Barcelona Resurgence Raises New Questions
Since joining Barcelona on loan, Rashford has delivered an impressive run of performances. Across 21 appearances, the winger has recorded six goals and 11 assists, playing a key role in helping the Catalan giants sit top of La Liga after 16 matchdays.
His pace, direct running, and improved decision-making have made him a valuable attacking weapon in Xavi’s system. The move has also restored confidence that appeared to be fading during his final months at Old Trafford.
Despite this resurgence, Rashford’s long-term future remains unresolved. His contract with Manchester United runs until June 2028, leaving the club with leverage—but also a financial dilemma.
Wages, Strategy, and United’s Bigger Picture
Rashford is currently among United’s highest earners, taking home around £325,000 per week. Reports suggest that United are keen to reduce their wage bill, especially if Rashford is not expected to feature prominently under Amorim’s leadership.
With the Portuguese coach showing no indication of reintegrating Rashford into his tactical plans, United may see this as an opportunity to offload a major salary while reinvesting in a younger, more system-compatible forward.
This is where the potential swap deal with PSG enters the conversation.
Rashford’s Desire to Stay at Barcelona—But Reality May Differ
In an interview with ESPN last October, Rashford openly expressed his admiration for Barcelona and his desire to remain at the club beyond the 2025/26 season.
“I’m enjoying my time here. For anyone who loves football, Barcelona is one of the most influential clubs in history. To play here is an honor,” Rashford said.
However, Spanish outlet Fichajes now claims that this plan could be disrupted by Manchester United’s transfer strategy. According to the report, United are prepared to include Rashford as part of a deal to land Bradley Barcola, PSG’s highly rated French international.
Bradley Barcola: The Rising Star United Want
Barcola, 23, has emerged as one of Europe’s most exciting young attackers. Currently contracted to PSG, the French winger has registered five goals and three assists in 19 appearances this season for the reigning European champions.
His versatility, acceleration, and technical ability have drawn interest from several Premier League clubs, including Arsenal and Liverpool, both of whom have been monitoring his situation closely.
At PSG, Barcola faces intense competition for minutes under Luis Enrique, battling with Désiré Doué and Khvicha Kvaratskhelia for a regular starting role. While highly rated, he has not yet fully cemented his place in the first XI.
Manchester United view Barcola as a long-term investment—one who fits Amorim’s preference for dynamic, high-energy wide forwards.
Why a Straight Swap Is Unlikely
Despite speculation, any potential deal is unlikely to be a straight player-for-player exchange. Rashford is five years older than Barcola, and although more experienced, his age and salary mean United would likely need to add a cash component to complete the transfer.
Both players are under contract until 2028, which complicates negotiations further. While Rashford’s situation at United appears stagnant, PSG are under no immediate pressure to sell Barcola.
Complicating matters further, talks over Barcola’s contract extension have reportedly stalled, leaving PSG open—at least theoretically—to discussions in the future.
Timing Remains the Key Obstacle
Any concrete negotiations are more likely to take place next summer, rather than in January. Rashford is expected to complete his season-long loan at Barcelona before returning to Manchester, at which point United will reassess their options.
For now, PSG head coach Luis Enrique has publicly dismissed suggestions that Barcola could leave in the near future.
“Bradley Barcola’s future? I have no doubts he will remain our player. We’re happy when our players attract interest, but he is one of the young talents we trust. I hope he stays here for many years,” Enrique said in June.
A Transfer That Could Shape United’s Rebuild
While the rumors remain speculative, the idea of using Rashford in a high-profile swap deal signals a potential shift in Manchester United’s transfer philosophy. Rather than selling players outright, the club may increasingly look to leverage assets to accelerate their rebuild under Amorim.
For Rashford, the coming months will be decisive. A permanent move to Barcelona, a shock transfer to PSG, or even a return to United are all still on the table.
One thing is clear: Marcus Rashford’s future is no longer straightforward, and Manchester United appear ready to make bold decisions that could redefine their attacking line for years to come.
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