Barcelona Still Keen on Marcus Rashford Despite Anthony Gordon Deal

Barcelona have not abandoned their pursuit of Manchester United forward Marcus Rashford, according to reports, even as they close in on the signing of Anthony Gordon from Newcastle United. The Catalan club are also considering Manchester City striker Julian Alvarez as a further option.

Rashford to Barcelona: Persistent Interest

The Spanish giants have long been admirers of Rashford, whose future at Old Trafford has been uncertain amid inconsistent form and contract discussions. Despite the imminent arrival of Gordon, who is expected to bolster Barcelona's left-wing options under Hansi Flick, the club view Rashford as a versatile forward capable of playing across the frontline.

Barcelona's financial constraints have been well documented, but they continue to explore deals for top-tier talent. Rashford, 27, has registered 87 goals and 35 assists in 287 Premier League appearances for Manchester United, though his output has dipped in recent seasons. Last term, he managed 13 league goals and five assists, a return below his 2022-23 peak of 17 goals.

The England international's ability to operate as a central striker or on the left flank aligns with Flick's tactical demands for fluid, high-pressing attacking play. Barcelona's interest in Rashford predates the Gordon agreement, suggesting they are building a multi-pronged transfer strategy.

Julian Alvarez: Another Target

Alongside Rashford, Barcelona have identified Julian Alvarez as a priority target. The Argentine World Cup winner has been a key figure for Manchester City under Pep Guardiola, contributing 21 goals and 11 assists in all competitions last season. Alvarez's profile as a hard-working, intelligent forward fits the Barcelona mould, but City are likely to demand a substantial fee for a player under contract until 2028.

The simultaneous interest in Rashford and Alvarez indicates Barcelona are preparing for a major attacking overhaul. With Robert Lewandowski turning 36, the club need long-term solutions, and both targets offer differing qualities: Rashford provides direct pace and dribbling, while Alvarez offers guile and pressing intensity.

However, securing either player will require significant outlay. Manchester United value Rashford at around £80m, while City are unlikely to sell Alvarez for less than £100m. Barcelona's precarious financial position means they may need to offload players first, with the likes of Raphinha and Ferran Torres linked with exits.

Impact on Manchester United and Newcastle

For Manchester United, losing Rashford would leave a creative void in Erik ten Hag's squad. The club are yet to finalise a new contract for their academy graduate, and any departure could accelerate plans to sign a replacement. Newcastle United, meanwhile, are poised to lose Gordon, a key figure in Eddie Howe's system. The winger's exit would require reinvestment in the summer window, with the Magpies eyeing a wide attacker to maintain squad depth.

Fantasy Premier League managers should monitor both situations. Rashford is currently owned by 8.2% of FPL managers at £9.0m, while Alvarez commands 12.5% ownership at £8.5m. A move to La Liga would remove both from FPL consideration, though Gordon's expected switch to Barcelona would also see him depart the Premier League, impacting Newcastle's attacking output.

What's Next for Barcelona's Transfer Plans

Barcelona's immediate focus is completing the Gordon deal, but negotiations for Rashford and Alvarez will likely intensify in the coming weeks. The club must balance their pursuit with La Liga's financial fair play regulations, which have limited their spending power. If they fail to secure Rashford or Alvarez, alternative targets such as Athletic Bilbao's Nico Williams remain possibilities. The summer window promises to be pivotal for Barcelona as they reshape their attack under Flick.

Filed under: Transfer News | LA Premier League Home