Barcelona Draw Up Shortlist as Marcus Rashford Permanent Move in Doubt

Barcelona are exploring alternatives to Marcus Rashford this summer, SportsBoom can exclusively reveal.

The Spanish giants have reportedly allowed the £26million buy clause in the loan agreement between them and Manchester United to expire with the long-anticipated move now shrouded in doubt.

Sporting director Deco was pushing to extend the loan deal for the England star for another season in order to save paying for the player this summer.

It is understood the Red Devils rejected that idea and want Barca to stump up the cash for Rashford.

Sources in Spain have told SportsBoom that Barcelona have begun looking elsewhere at cheaper options.

Real Betis star Ez Abde, a former player at the Nou Camp, has emerged on the shortlist of potential replacements.

The Moroccan international has netted five league goals as well as three times in the Champions League and provided five League assists this term, a major improvement after a slow start to his Betis career in the previous two campaigns.

Norway international Andreas Schjelderup is a firm favourite among the Barca board with Benfica thought to be looking cash in on the 21-year-old this summer.

Hometown boy Victor Muñoz, who came through the ranks at arch rivals Real Madrid, is also being considered. 

Clubs On Alert To Rashford Possibility

Rashford’s wages are believed to be putting the La Liga club off pulling the trigger, and with the fact they now need to negotiate a transfer fee for the forward a move is now further away than it ever has been.

As exclusively reported by SportsBoom last month, Aston Villa are closely monitoring Rashford’s situation and will offer their former loan star the chance to revive his Premier League career.

But a move to Villa would only be appealing for Rashford should Unai Emery's side qualify for the Champions League. 

It is understood a number of top European clubs are keeping a watchful eye on proceedings ahead of the summer window reopening.