Barcelona’s pursuit of Marcus Rashford has intensified following Nico Williams’ decision to stay at Athletic Club, with the Manchester United outcast now facing a career-defining move. The 27-year-old has reportedly made direct contact with Barça while also attracting interest from Fenerbahçe under José Mourinho.

Despite losing his iconic number 10 shirt at United, Rashford appears determined to force through a Camp Nou switch, even as reports suggest Barcelona initially prioritized other targets. With Ruben Amorim excluding him from United’s plans, the Premier League forward’s future could be decided this week.

Barcelona Eyes Marcus Rashford Transfer as Fenerbahçe Interest Grows – Will Man Utd Star Finally Move?

Will Rashford accept lower wages for Barcelona dream?

Barcelona’s financial constraints could force Marcus Rashford to take a significant pay cut if he wants to secure his dream move. The English forward currently earns around £300,000 per week at Manchester United, while Barcelona’s salary structure after their recent financial troubles would likely limit his wages to about £200,000 per week.

The Catalan club has shown they can attract stars with sporting projects rather than money, as seen with Robert Lewandowski’s move. However, Rashford’s representatives have reportedly been seeking assurances about Barcelona’s ability to compete for trophies before accepting reduced terms.

The wage reduction could actually benefit Rashford long-term if it reignites his career. Playing alongside talents like Yamal in Barcelona’s system might elevate his game more than staying at United.

But isn’t it risky? If he struggles in Spain, he might never get back to Premier League wages. And what about sponsorship deals that depend on his England visibility?

How Fenerbahçe’s Mourinho could hijack Barcelona’s plans

Former Manchester United manager Jose Mourinho has reportedly identified Rashford as his marquee signing for Fenerbahçe. The Turkish club could offer higher wages than Barcelona and guaranteed playing time in their Champions League campaign.

Mourinho’s personal relationship with Rashford from their time at Old Trafford adds intrigue. While Barcelona offers prestige, Fenerbahçe could promise being the undisputed star of their project, something that might appeal to Rashford’s need to rebuild his reputation after a difficult season.

Why Turkey might tempt Rashford

• Higher salary potential than Barcelona’s offer
• Champions League football guaranteed
• Central role in Mourinho’s project
• Less pressure than at Barcelona or United

What shirt number will Rashford wear if he joins Barcelona?

With Manchester United already reassigning Rashford’s #10 shirt to new signing Matheus Cunha, attention turns to what number he might wear in Catalonia. Barcelona’s famous #7 and #11 shirts are currently occupied by Ferran Torres and Raphinha respectively.

The most likely options appear to be:

Number symbolism matters in football. Taking #14 could be poetic – Henry revived his career there after Arsenal, and Rashford needs similar rejuvenation.

Wouldn’t #9 make sense if Lewandowski leaves? Though Rashford never plays as pure striker, the prestige might appeal to him.

Will Lamine Yamal partnership convince Rashford to wait for Barcelona?

Rashford has openly admired Barcelona’s teenage sensation Lamine Yamal, calling him “one of the most exciting young players in the world.” This compliments-fueled courtship suggests Rashford sees potential in forming a dynamic partnership with the Spanish wunderkind.

Barcelona’s current priority appears to be Liverpool’s Luis Diaz, but Rashford might bet on himself being the better long-term fit alongside Yamal. The Englishman’s experience could complement the youngster’s flair, creating a more balanced attack than two left-footed wingers in Diaz and Yamal.

Will Barcelona’s Luis Diaz chase leave Rashford in limbo?

The transfer saga’s most frustrating scenario for Rashford would see Barcelona pursuing Luis Diaz until deadline day before potentially turning to him as a last resort. This occurred last January when Barcelona explored Rashford before signing other targets.

Liverpool have repeatedly stated Diaz isn’t for sale, but Barcelona’s stubborn pursuit could drag through August. Rashford must decide how long he’ll wait before considering alternatives like Fenerbahçe or other Premier League clubs.

The danger is Rashford becomes this summer’s Aubameyang – waiting all summer for Barcelona only to join past his best physical condition.

Exactly! And what if Fenerbahçe moves on to other targets during the wait? He could end up stuck at United’s reserves until January.

Will Man United’s £60m price tag scare off suitors?

Despite Rashford’s difficult season, Manchester United are reportedly holding out for around £60m. This seems optimistic for a player who scored just 8 goals last campaign and is clearly out of favor under new manager Ruben Amorim.

Barcelona’s financial situation makes such a fee challenging without player sales, while Fenerbahçe would likely need to structure payments creatively. The coming weeks will reveal whether clubs meet United’s valuation or force them to lower demands.