Man Utd Could Hand Barcelona Cash Boost to Sign Marcus Rashford

Manchester United's pursuit of Vitor Roque could help Barcelona in their attempts to sign Marcus Rashford permanently.

Rashford, who joined the Catalan club from United in July on a season-long loan, has made a superb start to life under Hansi Flick, notching six goals and seven assists in 14 games.

The 28-year-old is also showing his prowess on the European stage, too. In fact, no player has more goal contributions (5) than Rashford in the Champions League this season.

Barcelona are said to be "ecstatic" with Rashford, according to a report from The Sun, who claim those inside the club have been impressed with his work ethic and talent.

A source told the publication: "Barcelona had an issue with signing Marcus initially, which was the club’s financial situation. But they also thought United were playing a game because they were willing to let him go.

"They thought it was too good to be true - there must be something wrong with him. His brother Dwaine persuaded them there was nothing wrong - and that he wasn’t going to mess them about."

The source added: "Barca are now really shocked that they could sign him for what they see as a bargain."

It has been widely reported that the reigning La Liga champions would have to pay £25 million plus £5 million in add-ons to get a deal over the line with United.

In terms of transfers, the club's financial situation has been an issue in the past, but they could receive a timely financial boost if they want to make Rashford's move permanent.

Vitor Roque sell-on clause revealed amid Manchester United interest

Ahead of the January transfer window, United have been tracking the progress of Vitor Roque as they pursue attacking options, according to The Mirror.

Vitor Roque has been a revelation since his return to Brazil. Image credit: Getty

Roque became the most expensive transfer in South American football history in February, when he joined Palmeiras from Barcelona for a reported £22 million.

The 20-year-old striker, who struggled to break into Barca's first-team, has certainly hit the ground running with Palmeiras, recording 17 goals and five assists across his debut campaign.

United are clearly impressed by Roque's decisiveness in front of goal.

And if they did make a move, Barcelona could benefit as they included a 20 per cent sell-on clause in the deal that brought him to Palmeiras – which could in turn help them in their pursuit of Marcus Rashford.

Roque is currently valued at €20 million by Transfermarkt but his agent, Andre Cury, has confirmed they are holding out for much more.

“We already had an offer from the Arab world of €35 million, which we were not interested in," he said, as per SPORT. “We are now waiting to receive a proposal of around €50 million from the Premier League."

Roque is attracting interest from clubs in Europe. Image credit: Getty

Of course, Barcelona would pocket €10 million if Roque were to join another club for €50 million.