Chelsea are considering a transfer for Marcus Rashford following Barcelona’s decision to return him to Manchester United.
Rashford had aspirations of securing a permanent contract with Barcelona after spending the previous season on loan at the Nou Camp.
The 28-year-old, who is gearing up for England’s World Cup campaign, made a significant impact at Barcelona, netting 14 goals across all competitions as Hansi Flick’s team clinched La Liga and the Spanish Super Cup, while also advancing deep into the Champions League.
When Barcelona arranged the loan for the Manchester United player last summer, they were given the opportunity to sign Rashford for approximately £26 million.
It was anticipated that the Spanish champions would activate this clause, especially since Flick and Barcelona’s sporting director Deco frequently commended Rashford’s performances.
However, Rashford faced a setback when Barcelona acquired his England teammate Anthony Gordon in a £70 million transfer from Newcastle United last month.
Reports indicated that Barcelona remained interested in retaining Rashford even after the arrival of Gordon, but it was revealed earlier this week that he would be returning to Old Trafford.
Having made over 400 appearances for his childhood club Manchester United, Rashford seems to lack a future at the Theatre of Dreams, despite Michael Carrick’s recent appointment as the permanent head coach.
Consequently, Rashford’s representatives have begun exploring alternative options, and Chelsea was linked with a surprising move earlier this month.
As per Chelsea expert Si Phillips, the Blues have not dismissed the possibility of pursuing Rashford and may consider making an official approach later in the summer.
Nonetheless, it is reported that Chelsea will only reach out to Rashford if their pursuits of other targets do not materialize, and even then, they would only be interested in a loan arrangement.
Anticipated new signings are on the horizon in west London as Xabi Alonso, the former midfielder for Liverpool and Real Madrid, prepares to assume the managerial role.
Chelsea’s London rivals, Arsenal, along with fellow Premier League teams Aston Villa and Tottenham, have also been associated with Rashford.