Rashford's Barcelona Option Expires, But Another Release Clause Exists in His Manchester United Contract

The clause allowing Barcelona to sign Marcus Rashford from Manchester United for €30 million expired yesterday. It had been clear for some time that the Catalan giants would not activate it, despite publicly expressing satisfaction with Rashford's contributions during his loan spell at Camp Nou last season. Instead, the Spanish champions opted to bring in Anthony Gordon from Newcastle for £70 million to bolster that position.

According to "The Athletic," the England international's contract with Manchester United contains another release clause. This clause is set at £40 million and is valid for all interested clubs, with the exception of fierce rivals Liverpool and Manchester City.

The publication claims that Rashford still harbors hopes of making his move to Barcelona permanent. However, should he return to Manchester United, he prefers to remain at the club and see out his contract, which runs until the summer of 2028, rather than join another Premier League team.

Rashford is among Manchester United's highest earners, commanding a weekly wage of £325,000.