Marcus Rashford impressed once again as he scored for Barcelona in their 3-1 La Liga victory over Elche.
The Englishman has made an impressive start to life in Spain, already registering 13 goal involvements in 14 games, including six goals and seven assists.
His latest goal came just after the hour mark with Barcelona leading 2-1.
Rashford received the ball on the edge of the box, then beat his defender before smashing a left-footed shot that cannoned in off the crossbar.
He was substituted in the 74th minute, and left the pitch to a standing ovation from the Barcelona supporters.
Rashford joined Barcelona in the summer on a season-long loan, following a breakdown in his relationship with Manchester United’s head coach Ruben Amorim.
Since then, he has expressed a desire to make the move to Spain permanent, with Barcelona holding a £28 million buy option in the deal.
Marcus Rashford scored against Elche for Barcelona (Image: Getty)
Despite his strong performances, club officials have made it clear they will take their time before deciding whether to trigger that option.
Spanish football expert Guillem Balague weighed in on X, writing: “Rashford scores again for FC Barcelona. 6 goals, 6 assists in 13 games.
“When you hear again FCB want to get rid of him, which will be regularly published with no basis at all, just smile and shake your head.
“Barcelona are very pleased with him. No decision has been made yet
“I don’t need to tell you many of stories published about Rashford has a (terrible) agenda.”
Although there is no guarantee that Barcelona will sign Rashford permanently, it seems certain that he will move on from Old Trafford next summer.
Marcus Rashford playing for FC Barcelona (Image: Getty)
His relationship with Amorim appears irreparably broken, and with Sir Jim Ratcliffe claiming the Portuguese head coach will be given three years to prove himself, a return to Manchester seems highly unlikely.
If the Barcelona move breaks down, other major European clubs are expected to push for Rashford.
Bayern Munich could be a potential destination, after they emerged as a potential suitor during the summer.
With England teammate Harry Kane leading the line, and already bagging 12 league goals this season, Rashford will feel he could thrive in the Bundesliga.
A return to the Premier League, such as a move to Aston Villa can not be ruled out, although it remains unclear whether Rashford would consider it.
Rashford’s contract at Manchester United runs until 2028, meaning he will still have two years left on his deal at the end of the season.
With his current wages reported at an astonishing £325,000 per week, he would likely need to reduce his salary demands if he is to join Barcelona on a permanent basis.
