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Marcus Rashford makes Barcelona transfer stance clear as options emerge for Man Utd star

By John Cross,Nathan Ridley

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Marcus Rashford makes Barcelona transfer stance clear as options emerge for Man Utd star

Marcus Rashford has set his heart on Barcelona – even with other big clubs circling. England star Rashford is on a season-long loan to Barcelona from Manchester United , and the Spanish giants have the option to make the move permanent for £26million next summer. Rashford’s performances and form at Barcelona are catching the eyes of other clubs in Europe, and even Paris Saint-Germain were linked after they met in the Champions League . However, Rashford is focused on playing well enough to secure a permanent move to Barcelona next summer, as it was his dream to play for the Catalan club when he left Old Trafford. Barcelona boss Hansi Flick has praised Rashford publicly and the 27-year-old has also impressed England boss Thomas Tuchel while on international duty. The United loanee came on as a second-half substitute in Thursday’s thumping 3-0 win against Wales . Rashford will hope to start Tuesday’s trip to Latvia, in which England can seal qualification for the World Cup if results go their way. He’s been in red-hot form since the last international break, having scored in the 5-0 victory in Serbia . In his last eight games for club and country, Rashford has contributed four goals and four assists. His latest strike came in Barca’s shock 4-1 defeat away to Sevilla , as the La Liga champions surrendered their grip on first place. Flick hailed Rashford’s performance after he scored twice in the Champions League to help Barcelona beat Newcastle 2-1 at St James’ Park last month. “I am not surprised [by his goals],” Flick said post-match. “I think he’s a fantastic player. His skills are unbelievable and his finishing is unbelievable. “I think also in the first half, he tried to create chances, but the finishing wasn’t there. In the second half it was. For a striker, it’s always good to score. I am really happy. Should Barcelona sign Marcus Rashford permanently? Have your say in the comments section . “He is an important player. When we spoke before the season about what we needed in the team, we felt we needed a player like him. When we had this chance [to sign him], I said we have to do it. He’s an outstanding player.” Rashford recently indicated public that he’s keen on a permanent stay in Catalunya. “[I want to stay for] as many [seasons] as possible. We will see,” he told TNT Sports . “I have to focus on trying to do my job and trying to help the team in whichever way I can.” Rashford added: “I’m learning a lot, it’s a new style of football,” and “But it’s making me a better player. Honestly, it’s an amazing experience. I’ve always been a huge admirer of Barcelona, every player my age has watched them play, it’s amazing football.” Barca’s sporting director, Deco, recently told Mundo Deportivo : “There’s no penalty clause in the loan agreement if we don’t sign him. We do have an option to make it permanent if we want to. It’s too early to talk about decisions for next season; what matters is that we’re happy with him.” Join our new MAN UTD WhatsApp community and receive your daily dose of Manchester United content from Mirror Football . We also treat our community members to special offers, promotions, and adverts from us and our partners. If you don’t like our community, you can check out any time you like. If you’re curious, you can read our Privacy Notice.