Marcus Rashford Swap Deal: Man Utd Joins Three-Way Transfer Battle

Marcus Rashford swap deal possibility emerges as Man United enter three-way transfer fight Marcus Rashford is liked at Barcelona and a permanent move in the summer is incredibly likely but Manchester United could have a say in the transfer at the end of the season Manchester United have reportedly registered an interest in Barcelona midfielder Marc Casado amid the ongoing search to bolster their midfield in the January transfer window. United decided against signing a midfielder in the summer under Ruben Amorim, instead spending their budget on three attackers and a new goalkeeper. Another figure in Michael Carrick's midfield has been tipped this January, but it's understood that a new signing will only come in at the right price. Kobbie Mainoo's return to the starting line-up against Manchester City means a potential exit away from England is off the table. Manuel Ugarte, who Ajax want, and Casemiro make up Carrick's options in midfield for the remaining 16 games of the season. Man United takeover talks 'have happened' as Glazers tipped to be 'considering two options' Michael Carrick brings in new Man United rule straight away after Ruben Amorim's 'bans' However, Mundo Deportivo have claimed that United have entered the race alongside Wolves for Casado as a potential target. Atletico Madrid are also keen on the midfielder, who was the subject of an offer from West Ham in the summer, after Conor Gallagher's move to Tottenham earlier this month. United's link to a Barcelona player comes in the same week that reports suggested the La Liga leaders were pushing ahead with a move for Marcus Rashford. The forward is on loan from United and Barca have the option to sign him permanently for €30milion (£26m). Rashford has scored eight goals and assisted 11 in 29 games this season. However, despite the loan agreement, reports claim the Spanish side are exploring alternative options to keep him at the club beyond his loan spell. FOLLOW OUR MAN UNITED FB PAGE!Latest news and analysis via the MEN’s Manchester United Facebook page One possibility is to sign Rashford for less than the agreed price, and the second is to loan him for the 2026/27 campaign with an obligation to purchase in the summer of 2027. It's understood that United's preference is to sell this summer and cash in for a significant overhaul of the playing squad. Fortunately, United's interest in Casado opens the door to another possibility which could leave all parties pleased. United are desperate for new blood in midfield, with Casemiro likely to depart at the end of the season when his £15million-a-year contract expires. At 22, the defensive midfielder has been compared to Sergio Busquets for his performances for Barcelona. United's move for Casado would also leave Barcelona with an easy route to sign Rashford on their terms. Atletico Madrid and Wolves are said to be keen on Casado, with the former considering a move this month. A swap deal that would see Rashford sign permanently and United bring Casado to Old Trafford, plus a small cash payment, could be the perfect agreement for both clubs. Transfermarkt value the 22-year-old at just £22m, less than the fee agreed for Rashford, meaning United have some room to negotiate a suitable deal in January. Casado has been used sparingly this season, playing 19 games in all competitions and completing 90 minutes on just four occasions.