Rashford's Barcelona return hinges on Raphinha's potential Saudi exit this summer

Marcus Rashford’s hopes of a permanent move to Barcelona have been revived by reports that Al-Hilal are pursuing Brazilian winger Raphinha, which could prompt the Spanish club to re-enter negotiations with Manchester United over the 28-year-old forward.

Rashford joined Barcelona on loan last summer with a £26m option to buy included in the agreement. He scored 14 goals during the campaign, but that return was not enough to convince the club to trigger the clause, which has since lapsed. Barcelona instead moved to sign Rashford’s England teammate Anthony Gordon from Newcastle in a £70m deal.

According to GE Globo, Saudi side Al-Hilal are now targeting Raphinha in what would be a financially significant transfer. The former Leeds winger is said to be open to discussions, though he would delay any formal talks until after the World Cup. Raphinha attracted Saudi interest in 2024 but was persuaded to stay at Camp Nou on that occasion.

Should Raphinha depart, Barcelona may look to replace him and could return to Rashford as an option — though they would need to negotiate a fresh deal with United rather than revive the expired purchase clause.

Rashford, meanwhile, is set to hold talks with United chiefs about his future. He remains determined to leave Old Trafford permanently, a stance that has not changed despite the club’s change of management. United are understood to be seeking around £40m for a permanent sale and are unwilling to sanction another loan.

The forward’s options have narrowed considerably. United have already blocked moves to Manchester City and Liverpool, both of whom had shown interest, while Arsenal have also moved on from any pursuit.

Raphinha pushed back on departure speculation last month, telling ESPN: “Ever since I arrived at Barcelona, from day one there’s been speculation that I’m going to leave this club. I think people don’t really like seeing me here. Especially the press.”

Whether that stance holds in the face of a substantial Saudi offer remains to be seen — and Rashford’s summer may depend on the answer.