Latest developments
- Barcelona have seemingly convinced Marcus Rashford to move to Camp Nou.
- Despite interest from elsewhere, Rashford is willing to wait for Barca.
- The La Liga side still need to clear their wage bill.
Whisper+ analysis
Authenticity (4/5): Local source makes major Rashford claim
Barcelona have reached an agreement over personal terms with Manchester United star Marcus Rashford over a loan deal for the remainder of the season. The Englishman is eager to join the club and is willing to wait for them until deadline day despite interest from elsewhere.
The major claim is being made by SPORT, a Barcelona-based outlet who are always in the know about what's going behind the scenes at the club.
Value (3/5): Barcelona cannot afford Rashford's wages
Despite securing Rashford's nod, Barca still have plenty of work to do as they cannot currently afford his wages. The 27-year-old's annual salary is reported to be around £15 million gross, of which the Spanish side would need to cover £7.5 million for the remaining six months of the season.
In order to do so, Barcelona will have to raise funds through sales.
Suitability (3.5/5): Threat in transition
Hansi Flick's side likes to play high-intensity football, generating transition situations through their high press before aggressively attacking the penalty area of the opposition.
Rashford's directness and pace could prove to be a potent attacking threat in the German's system. However, his out-of-possession work, or lack thereof, could leave the side vulnerable.
Upgrade? (3/5): Challenge for Raphinha
The 28-year-old Brazilian has been simply brilliant this season as a left-winger, scoring 20 goals across all competitions so far. As such, Rashford is unlikely to be guaranteed a starting spot in Barcelona. However, he is still talented enough to provide solid competition to Raphinha, assuming the Brazilian doesn't make good on a potential move to Man City.
Logic (4/5): Move to the sunny side
Rashford's situation in Manchester has become nigh-untenable, as he continues to receive backlash for his work ethic. As such, it would be good for him to move away from the constant media scrutiny in England, and attempt to rediscover his form in less harsh surroundings.
Whisper+ verdict: 17.5/25
The reputation of the source and United's desire to sell Rashford suggest a move to Barca is imminent. All eyes are now on the next outgoing at Camp Nou.
