Barcelona Director Drops Bombshell on Marcus Rashford Transfer Clause
Barcelona's sporting director Deco has clarified that there is no financial penalty clause should the club choose not to make Marcus Rashford's transfer from Manchester United permanent next summer.
Upon Rashford's arrival at Barcelona, which includes a purchase option for the winger valued at approximately €30 million (£26.2 million, $35.2 million), media reports drew comparisons to the arrangement made with Chelsea regarding Jadon Sancho last season. Chelsea opted against exercising their obligation to sign Sancho permanently this summer and paid a £5 million penalty as a result.
Fabrizio Romano was among the journalists who reported that Barcelona had agreed to their own penalty clause, which would be less than the £5 million paid by Chelsea, but Deco has refuted these claims.
"It's a straightforward loan deal with no penalty involved, and should we desire to keep him, we possess a purchase option," Deco explained to Mundo Deportivo.
Recent speculation has even suggested that Barcelona have already made the decision to pursue Rashford's permanent acquisition and might accelerate such a transfer to the January window, but Deco has again denied these assertions.
Deco Refutes Barcelona Have Made Rashford Decision
"It's premature to discuss decisions regarding next season, but what's important is our satisfaction with his performance," he stated. "The contribution we anticipated from him is exactly what he's delivering. He's an exceptional talent.
"He burst onto the scene very young, then enjoyed outstanding seasons at United, followed by more challenging periods with coaching changes, and perhaps he found it difficult because of the numerous demands placed on him there. However, we're pleased with him; that's what truly matters.
"These aren't immediate decisions; our current focus should be on upcoming matches. A decision will eventually be reached, but it's not under consideration at this moment."
Following a gradual beginning to his stint in Catalonia, Rashford has solidly secured his position as a key player under manager Hansi Flick. He has scored twice, both goals coming in a Champions League triumph against Newcastle United, while providing an assist in each of his previous four La Liga appearances.
A punctuality problem led to Rashford being excluded from Flick's starting eleven earlier in September, but both parties have swiftly resolved the matter and Rashford was promptly reinstated to the squad.