Chelsea decide on Marcus Rashford after Barcelona cancels Manchester United deal

Chelsea are weighing a transfer for Marcus Rashford after Barcelona decided to send him back to Manchester United.

The 28‑year‑old had hoped to secure a permanent deal with Barcelona following a loan spell at the Nou Camp last season.

Rashford made a strong impression, scoring 14 goals in all competitions as Hansi Flick’s side won La Liga and the Spanish Super Cup and progressed deep into the Champions League.

When Barcelona arranged the loan from Manchester United last summer, they were offered a purchase option of about £26 million.

It was expected that the Spanish champions would exercise the clause, especially after Flick and sporting director Deco repeatedly praised Rashford’s performances.

However, Barcelona’s recent acquisition of England teammate Anthony Gordon for £70 million from Newcastle United last month complicated matters.

Although reports suggested Barcelona remained interested in keeping Rashford, it was confirmed earlier this week that he would return to Old Trafford.

After making over 400 appearances for his boyhood club, Rashford appears to have no future at the Theatre of Dreams, even with Michael Carrick’s recent appointment as permanent head coach.

As a result, Rashford’s representatives are exploring other options, and Chelsea was linked with a surprising move earlier this month.

According to Chelsea expert Si Phillips, the Blues have not ruled out pursuing Rashford and may make an official approach later in the summer.

Reports indicate that Chelsea will only contact Rashford if their other target pursuits fall through, and even then they would likely seek a loan deal.

New signings are expected in west London as Xabi Alonso, former Liverpool and Real Madrid midfielder, prepares to take the managerial role.

Chelsea’s London rivals Arsenal, as well as Premier League clubs Aston Villa and Tottenham, have also been mentioned in connection with Rashford.