Barcelona Make Transfer Decision on Marcus Rashford After 26 Games

Barcelona have reached a final decision over whether to sign Marcus Rashford on a permanent transfer from Manchester United, according to a new report.

Rashford signed for Barca on loan last summer after being made surplus to requirements under former United manager Ruben Amorim.

The 28-year-old quickly established himself at Camp Nou by scoring a brace against Newcastle in the Champions League, before netting four goals and assisting a further six in his next 11 appearances.

His goalscoring form has tailed off since then, with only one goal since November 5, and he was taken off at half-time during Barca's eventual 2-0 win over fierce rivals Espanyol.

According to Spanish journalist Alfredo Martinez, Barcelona have been suitably convinced by Rashford and intend to sign him permanently this summer.

The England international has a reported €30 million buyout clause as part of his loan contract, which Hansi Flick's side can trigger during the next transfer window.

It is claimed that Rashford's representatives have been told of Barcelona's plans, with talks expected to be held between both parties prior to the end of the season.

Rashford has scored six goals and provided eight assists since joining Barcelona (Image: Getty)

In December, Barca boss Flick described the 28-year-old as an 'absolute professional', adding: "His attitude, mentality is great.

"In the beginning, he had to adapt a little bit, but now he's on his best level.

"I speak with the players when they're not playing, explaining why. And what he said to me on the last day was, 'Boss, you don't have to tell me this. It's only about the team. We have to win the three points, nothing else is important'.

"It's the right attitude. The mentality he has is fantastic and I am really happy he is here."

It was widely anticipated that Rashford had played his last game for United upon his departure in July, having been with the club since the age of seven.

Rashford was banished to the Manchester United 'bomb squad' under Ruben Amorim (Image: Getty)

He went on to make 428 appearances in all competitions after graduating from the academy, scoring 138 goals.

He had been left out of the squad for the opening months of Amorim's reign last season, with the Portuguese boss blaming his absence on the forward's performances in training.

Rashford subsequently spent the second half of last season on loan at Aston Villa, where he put in a series of impressive displays.

The Sun reported on Tuesday that Rashford is still expected to leave Old Trafford this summer despite Amorim's sacking on Monday.