Rashford removes Barcelona from bio as £26m move collapses after Gordon signing

Marcus Rashford appears to have accepted that his loan spell at Barcelona is over, removing the club from his Instagram bio after reports emerged that they will not exercise their £26 million buy option on the Manchester United forward.

Spanish publication Marca reports that Barcelona’s decision was driven largely by their agreement to sign Anthony Gordon from Newcastle United. The club are said to have favoured Gordon — three and a half years younger than the 28-year-old Rashford — partly because of his ability to fulfil defensive duties under head coach Hansi Flick. Rashford, who registered 14 goals and 14 assists across 49 appearances during his loan stint at the Camp Nou, had made clear his desire to stay in Spain.

With Barcelona out of the picture, Rashford is now expected to return to United after the World Cup unless another club agrees a deal for him before then. His future at Old Trafford remains uncertain following the loan move, and United manager Michael Carrick’s side are preparing for a Champions League campaign next season after a significant squad overhaul.

United confirmed the departures of Casemiro, Jadon Sancho and Tyrell Malacia as part of their retained list this week. The club have already moved to replace Casemiro by agreeing a deal for midfielder Ederson.

On the incomings front, United have been linked with Leeds United goalkeeper Karl Darlow, who is currently in discussions with the Yorkshire club over his future. The Wales international is approaching the end of his contract at Elland Road, where he became first choice in the second half of last season, making 22 appearances. Leeds are also reported to be in the market for a new goalkeeper, leaving Darlow’s situation unresolved.

Darlow has attracted interest from several Premier League clubs and could become a free agent. At United, he would serve as an experienced back-up option, with Altay Bayindir and Andre Onana no longer part of the club’s plans.