Manchester United forward Marcus Rashford’s dream transfer to Barcelona is moving closer with a deal in principle reached over a potential loan move to the Spanish giants.
Barcelona have been Rashford’s preferred destination since he suggested it was time for a new challenge in December after being dropped by head coach Ruben Amorim.
BBC Sport has been told talks have taken place involving intermediaries and an outline verbal agreement has been reached.
The transfer would be an initial loan with an option to buy.
Spanish champions Barcelona looked set to sign Spain winger Nico Williams earlier this summer.
However, the 22-year-old signed a new 10-year contract at Athletic Bilbao.
Marcus Rashford has not played for Manchester United since being substituted during their 2-1 Europa League win at Viktoria Plzen on 12 December
Rashford spent the second half of last season on loan at Aston Villa, where he made 17 appearances across all competitions – scoring four goals and providing six assists.
He is one of five United players – and the highest paid – told to train separately from Amorim’s squad amid a stand-off over their futures.
The 27-year-old does not believe he will play for United again while Amorim is at the club.
Him joining Barcelona would be a big positive for United as they look to strengthen Amorim’s squad.
With more than £130m committed to signing Matheus Cunha and Bryan Mbeumo, further deals have to be funded through departures.
Even if Rashford’s exit were initially on loan, the saving off the wage bill would be significant given only Casemiro earns more than his £325,000-a-week salary.
