Barcelona keeping tabs on Manchester United star’s contract situation
Barcelona have identified Manchester United’s Marcus Rashford as a long-term replacement for Luis Suarez but are unlikely to make an approach this summer, according to reports.
The 21-year-old has a deal until 2020 at Old Trafford and the Catalan club are eagerly keeping tabs on the progress of his contract situation.
ESPN FC has reported that the Red Devils will not consider a sale of the England striker and have begun negotiations for an extension.
A source at the club described as a “high-ranking executive” told the outlet that Barça’s interest is akin to wanting a date with Cindy Crawford or a supermodel – unlikely to happen.
The Spanish club believe he fits the profile to replace the 32-year-old Suarez, but a club executive suggested an imminent move is unlikely.
"We don't want to approach a player that still has a contract with Manchester United," the club source said.
"He's a great player but has [18 months] to run on his contract at Old Trafford.
"Even though it seems talks over a renewal have stopped for now, I'm sure United will try to convince him [to stay] however they can. He's one of the pillars of their future."
Get FourFourTwo Newsletter
The best features, fun and footballing quizzes, straight to your inbox every week.
Eintracht Frankfurt forward Luka Jovic, on loan from Benfica this season, has also been heavily linked with a move to Catalonia, while Everton’s Richarlison has been touted.
"He is a good player and we like him, but there are other options better placed than him," the source said of the Toffees’ Brazilian forward.
TV Live football on TV this weekend: Premier League, Championship, Old Firm and more
QUIZ! Can you name the 27 Irishmen with 10+ Premier League goals?
Alasdair Mackenzie is a freelance journalist based in Rome, and a FourFourTwo contributor since 2015. When not pulling on the FFT shirt, he can be found at Reuters, The Times and the i. An Italophile since growing up on a diet of Football Italia on Channel 4, he now counts himself among thousands of fans sharing a passion for Ross County and Lazio.