Rashford handed another Man Utd exit boost to keep 'dream' transfer hopes alive

Marcus Rashford is eyeing up a Manchester United exit with Barcelona his dream destination and the Catalans continue to be knocked back by their targets - which could play into his hands

Marcus Rashford's hopes of landing a dream switch to Barcelona have been aided after another of their targets had to be scratched off their list.

Rafael Leao is the latest major name who won't be joining the Catalans, who have had little joy with their pursuit of more firepower this summer. The AC Milan star has excelled at the San Siro and new manager Max Allegri insists he is going nowhere.

Barcelona, fresh off the back of securing a domestic double in Hansi Flick's first season, are looking to bolster a forward line that already includes Robert Lewandowski, Lamine Yamal and Raphinha. Leao had been identified as their latest target, but the Italians have no plans to sell.

Allegri has said: “I’m sure I can bring out that extra something he’s been missing. I’m glad he’s stayed, he’s now more responsible, more mature, and has all the qualities to become one of the best."

That comes after Barcelona also missed out on Nico Williams and Luis Diaz. The latter was thought to be their priority but Liverpool have made it clear, whilst his contract is winding down, that the Colombian will not be departing Anfield.

As a result, Barcelona made a beeline for Williams, who put himself on the map with a stellar showing in last summer's Euros. He remains a leading light at Athletic Bilbao and, after being close to a move, has u-turned and chosen to sign a long-term deal at San Mames after Barcelona couldn't offer him certain guarantees.

It means the Spanish giants are back to the drawing board and Rashford could be a name they now consider. The Manchester United forward doesn't appear to have any future under Ruben Amorim after being loaned out back at the start of the year.

His move to Aston Villa was a success, but has not been made permanent and Rashford has been somewhat left in the lurch over his next move. It is understood that the England international sees Barcelona as his 'dream destination' and that move could now materialise if their persist with their plan to add another forward.

Newcastle are also among those to express an interest in Rashford, but they want a loan move whilst those in Manchester want an end to the saga with a permanent exit on their radar. The 27-year-old has proven he can be prolific in the past, but he's been blighted by inconsistencies.