Marcus Rashford texted Lamine Yamal 'for months' prior to Barcelona loan move as Man Utd outcast sought summer exit from Old Trafford

Barcelona have secured Rashford on a season-long loan after the forward pushed for a dream switch to Camp Nou. According to The Athletic, the 27-year-old had been messaging Spain superstar Yamal for months, signalling his intent and desire to join the Catalan giants. Barca reportedly hold a €30 million purchase option as part of the deal, and Rashford will earn significantly less than he did at Manchester United.

Rashford’s arrival gives Barcelona a new attacking option alongside Yamal, Lewandowski, and Raphinha. Deco and Hansi Flick prioritised bringing in a dynamic forward this summer, and Rashford’s willingness to adapt made him an ideal fit after the Catalan side's failed move for Nico Williams. The England international's relationship with Ruben Amorim and status at United made an Old Trafford stay untenable.

Speaking during his Barcelona presentation, Rashford praised Yamal and said: "He’s a very, very special talent. Last season, he was one of the leading players in the world, if not the best in the world. It’s exciting. Everybody in sport wants to play with the best."

Rashford has already joined pre-season training and did so even before his move to Barcelona was officially announced. He must now prove he can adapt to Flick’s system and earn a place in a competitive front line. Barcelona will monitor his progress closely as they weigh up triggering the €30m buy option.