Atlético de Madrid, unexpected rival of Barcelona for a 'top' winger

FC Barcelona could face much more competition than expected if they decide to pursue the signing of Marcus Rashford in the summer of 2025. Recent reports indicate Atlético de Madrid's interest in the Manchester United 'star', as the 'colchoneros' see the English international as a market 'bargain' that could be very valuable for the 2025/26 season.

Initially, the 'Man U' would not be willing to let go of one of their key players for less than 60-65 million euros, a high amount for the plans of both the azulgranas and 'rojiblancos'. However, the complex current situation of the 27-year-old player, who has taken on a secondary role since Erik ten Hag left the Old Trafford bench, could unexpectedly change the negotiations for the winger, whose contract expires in 2028.

Rúben Amorim 'sentences' Marcus Rashford

At this point, Rashford's future seems to be moving further away from Old Trafford every day. Rúben Amorim did not call him up for the Manchester derby or for the round of 16 match of the League Cup against Tottenham. To make matters worse, the '10' was also left out of the list against Bournemouth, where the 'red devils' suffered a heavy defeat at home (0-3). Of the three matches without the winger, the team could only win against their neighbors (1-2 against City).

In this sense, if the total breakdown of the relationship between the winger and the coach is confirmed, both Barça and Atlético could attempt to negotiate the loan of the English international. Marcus has a contract until June 2027, but Manchester cannot afford to let him train with the reserves for six months or only play Europa League matches. The 27-year-old forward earns around 18 million euros net per season, a salary difficult for the culés to handle.