INEOS will be concerned: European giants have now 'cooled' interest in 28yo Man Utd star

Manchester United have suffered a fresh setback ahead of the upcoming summer.

Man United sent Marcus Rashford on loan to Barcelona last summer, with the La Liga giants holding an option to sign him permanently for £26 million.

While Barcelona were initially pleased with his contributions, doubts are now creeping in over a permanent move.

According to The Athletic, Barcelona’s interest in retaining Rashford after his loan spell has cooled.

The 28-year-old failed to meet expectations in the Champions League quarter-final tie against Atletico Madrid.

He wasted a few half-chances in front of goal which did his case “no favours”.

The report further revealed that club sources believe that Rashford had a golden chance to make his mark after Raphinha’s injury but failed to fully take it.

This could be catastrophic for the Red Devils as Rashford is one of the highest earners at the club.

United sit third in the Premier League table and appear on course for Champions League qualification.

Securing a top-five finish would automatically remove the 25% pay cut imposed after missing out on European football.

It was reported in recent weeks that the Blaugrana wanted to reduce the £26m transfer fee but United swiftly rejected any negotiations.

Unfortunately, United are not in a strong position due to the financial burden of reintegrating Rashford should he return to Old Trafford.

A reunion appears increasingly unlikely, potentially forcing United to accept a discounted fee to offload the forward permanently.

Having Rashford back would significantly limit United’s financial flexibility and will end up disturbing their other transfer plans.

Stats from Transfermarkt.com

Article written by Sanidhya Bhardwaj .