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Newly signed Barcelona winger Anthony Gordon has disclosed that Marcus Rashford has been sharing advice about settling into life in the city following his own move to Catalonia.
While deliberating over activating a $35 million (€30 million) purchase option for Manchester United loanee Rashford, Barcelona moved swiftly to secure Gordon from Newcastle United in a deal worth $81.6 million (€70 million).
With both players filling comparable roles on the pitch for club and country, Gordon's arrival at Barcelona has intensified speculation surrounding Rashford's future at Camp Nou, following a productive loan stint that produced 14 goals and 14 assists across all competitions.
Some observers suggested the duo's shared time with England this summer could create tension, but Gordon was quick to put those rumors to rest.
"He was just telling me how good the lads are there, the team spirit that they have, which I heard already from the people in Barça," Gordon told talkSPORT.
"So I'm really looking forward to joining up with them. He was also telling me about the city, places to live.
"He's a lovely guy, very caring. So he was just giving me a bit of information."
What's the Latest on Rashford's Future?
The mood emerging from Barcelona suggests the club remains interested in keeping Rashford, who has made it crystal clear that his sole focus is on prolonging his time with the La Liga title holders.
Financial considerations are central to the standoff. Barcelona, despite evidently having adequate resources, are reportedly reluctant to exercise their purchase clause, which they must trigger by June 15. Beyond that date, Rashford would be required to return to United.
Given United's eagerness to part ways with Rashford and his substantial wages, Barcelona have been attempting to negotiate a fee well below their $35 million clause, with some reports indicating the Blaugrana are willing to go as low as half that amount, believing United will be compelled to accept a discounted offer.
While United are widely known to be eager to move Rashford on, the Red Devils have consistently maintained they will not budge on a deal already considered a bargain in a market where Gordon commanded a fee more than double that figure.
Recent reports have hinted that United may show some flexibility, though not to such a significant degree, with the possibility of a second loan arrangement not entirely ruled out should the conditions suit both clubs.
Talks are expected to continue up to the June 15 deadline, after which United will open the door to other interested parties. The Red Devils anticipate strong demand for Rashford and are confident a bidding war could yield a higher fee than what Barcelona have proposed, though rival suitors will undoubtedly attempt to push United's valuation down as well.
Even after the deadline passes, Barcelona retain the option to negotiate directly with United — the crucial distinction being that the Premier League club would face no obligation to entertain any offers from the Spanish side.