Marcus Rashford valuation doubled by Manchester United bosses

Manchester United’s long-term squad planning has been under increase scrutiny in recent months, particularly as the club prepares for a significant midfield rebuild following Casemiro’s pending exit.

We recently covered conflicting reports over Marcus Rashford’s permanent move to Barcelona, with uncertainty surrounding whether talks between the two clubs had even formally begun.

Now, fresh claims have added another twist to the saga.

According to the Mirror, senior figures at Manchester United privately believe Rashford’s valuation has effectively doubled following his resurgence in Spain – and some are said to regret the terms initially agreed with Barcelona.

The 28-year-old joined Barcelona on loan last summer, with the Catalan side granted a first option to sign him permanently for around £26 million.

Since then, Rashford has scored 10 goals in 25 appearances and worked his way back into the England picture under Thomas Tuchel.

However, the report suggests United insiders now believe the forward’s market value is closer to £50 million, especially given interest from multiple clubs across Europe.

From United’s perspective, the frustration centres on the agreed option fee.

With no recall fee inserted into the deal, there is no mechanism for the club to bring Rashford back – even if the new coaching staff were inclined to reassess his role.

Newly appointed interim manager Michael Carrick has been focused on reshaping key areas of the squad, but this situation appears largely out of his hands.

Complicating matters further, it is reported that Rashford himself is keen to make the movepermanent.

He has settled well in Catalonia, with Hansi Flick said to favour keeping him long term.

While co-owner Sir Jim Ratcliffe remains intent on reducing the wage bill, the prospect of allowing a homegrown talent to depart for what some within the club now view as below-market value is understood to have caused internal debate.

Rashford’s contract at Old Trafford runs until 2028, but if Barcelona activate their option at the previously agreed price, United will have little room to manoeuvre.

What once appeared a straightforward exit strategy may now be viewed inside Carrington as a missed financial opportunity.