Bayern Munich lead race to sign Rashford as Barcelona's £26m option expires

Manchester United will actively seek a permanent buyer for Marcus Rashford from Tuesday after Barcelona allow their €30 million (£26m) option to sign the forward to lapse without activation.

Barcelona had until Monday to trigger the clause inserted into Rashford’s loan deal, during which the 28-year-old scored 14 goals and registered 14 assists in 49 appearances at the Nou Camp. The Catalan club never formally informed Old Trafford they would not be proceeding, leaving United in a holding pattern — but their decision not to act has been made clear by the signing of Anthony Gordon from Newcastle for £69m, a move that effectively closed the door on a Rashford return.

With the deadline passed, United must now take a more proactive approach to moving on a player manager Ruben Amorim has already ruled out reintegrating into the first-team squad. That decision, taken following a series of disciplinary issues, was backed by director of football Jason Wilcox and remains firm. Rashford’s £325,000-a-week wages are no longer considered compatible with the club’s revised salary structure, particularly given he would not be guaranteed to start ahead of Matheus Cunha or Patrick Dorgu.

Bayern Munich have emerged as the most credible suitor. The German club had previously pursued Gordon before his move to Spain and are now exploring a move for Rashford as they seek competition for Luis Diaz and a backup striker following the return of Nicolas Jackson to Chelsea after a season-long loan. Rashford’s ability to operate across the front line is understood to be a significant factor in Bayern’s interest, and the club views him as both a sporting and commercial asset.

Premier League interest is also anticipated, with Newcastle, Tottenham and Arsenal among the clubs identified as potential suitors looking to reinforce on the left flank.

Rashford was reportedly blindsided by Barcelona’s pivot to Gordon, despite having offered the winger advice on life in Catalonia during England’s World Cup preparations. A return to the Nou Camp on loan or at a reduced fee has not been entirely ruled out by Barcelona, but is now considered highly unlikely.

United retain some hope that a strong World Cup campaign under Thomas Tuchel could enhance Rashford’s market value and widen the field of interested clubs ahead of a summer deal.