Barcelona can sign Marcus Rashford on a permanent transfer at the end of the season after landing the forward on loan from Manchester United in the summer window
Marcus Rashford has been warned he could be sent back to Manchester United by Barcelona. Former England star Chris Waddle has claimed the 27-year-old cannot let his level drop if he hopes to secure a deal to remain at Camp Nou.
Barcelona have an option to sign Rashford permanently at the end of the season for £26million. The Catalan club's sporting director, Deco, has suggested a decision will not be made until later in the season, even with Rashford's promising start.
The forward has five goals and seven assists in 13 appearances this term, and he provided the ball for Fermin Lopez's goal against Real Madrid at the weekend. Rashford impressed in his debut El Clasico despite the defeat.
Rashford is keen to remain in Spain and has described it as a ' perfect scenario ' to play alongside Pedri and Lamine Yamal. But it is not a certainty that his stay will be extended next June.
Waddle reckons Rashford's salary could still pose a problem and that Barcelona will be hesitant to pay so much. The ex-Marseille winger says the Manchester United loanee's form will need to go up another level.
“A major hurdle in any potential signing could be the player's wages. Barcelona may not be willing to match Rashford’s current salary, creating a stumbling block as they typically don't pay that level of compensation," said Waddle, speaking to BOYLE Sports, who offer the best football odds.
“Barcelona is linked with many available players. It remains to be seen if they have another target for the left-wing or centre-forward positions, or someone else lined up for the summer.
“This season will be crucial for Rashford. He cannot afford to be inconsistent; he must perform exceptionally in every game as if it's a cup final to secure a deal with Barcelona. This is complicated by the transfer fees involved and his current lucrative contract, which Barcelona may be unwilling to pay.
“The club might be thinking, ‘We're paying his wages, but we've saved a considerable amount on a transfer fee for a season.’
“If he performs exceptionally, scoring 20 goals and consistently earning man of the match, Barcelona would have no choice but to sign him. However, his current performances are merely OK, not unbelievable. As the season progresses, it's essentially a trial period for him.
“He's attempting to secure a contract from a club that is interested but not fully committed. They might send him back if they have another player in mind.
“Most top players will quickly move to clubs like Real Madrid or Barcelona, so Barcelona could have alternative plans.”