Barcelona deny financial 'penalty' if they refuse to sign Marcus Rashford as sporting director Deco explains details of Man Utd loan transfer

Barcelona's fragile financial condition meant that they failed in their endeavours to sign prime left-wing targets Nico Williams and Luis Diaz, with the former staying put at Athletic Club and the latter moving to Bayern Munich. Ultimately, the reigning La Liga champions signed Rashford on a season-long loan from United, with an option to buy him for £26 million (€30m/$35m) next summer.

The England international has made a terrific start in Catalunya, proving his importance to head coach Hansi Flick early on in the season. Rashford has featured in all eight games for Barca so far, which includes his rip-roaring brace against old foes Newcastle in the Champions League, as well as three assists in La Liga. The Catalans are keen on analysing Rashford's performances throughout the 2025-26 season before making a decision on his potential long-term future at the club.

Speaking to Mundo Deportivo, Deco dispelled rumours that Barca would be required to pay a penalty should they opt not to sign Rashford permanently next summer.

"He's on a simple loan, there's no penalty, and if we want him, we have an option to buy," said Deco. "It's too early to talk about decisions for next season, but what matters is that we're happy with him. What we thought he could bring to us, he's bringing. He's a very high-level player; he exploded very early, then he had great seasons at United, then he had years of more complicated management with changes of coaches, and perhaps he struggled too because they demanded a lot of things from him there. But we're happy with him; that's the most important thing. These aren't decisions for now; now it's time to focus on the games to come. A decision will be made, but that's not being discussed right now."

He didn't provide much information regarding the details of the purchase option, though. "I don't know, [the purchase fee] is not that high but I don't have to say it either, there's a contract between the clubs but it has to be discussed," he added.

Flick will have a huge selection headache on his head when picking his starting XI for Wednesday's blockbuster Champions League clash against Paris Saint-Germain. With Lamine Yamal returning from injury, it is likely that Rashford will drop to the bench. However, the Barca manager might bear Rashford's fiery form in mind and name him as a surprise inclusion in the XI.