Rashford told condition for permanent Barcelona transfer after ‘fortunate’ move

Michael Owen believes that Marcus Rashford will earn a permanent move to Barcelona, with the former United player enjoying a revival at the Camp Nou since his switch in the summer

Michael Owen believes Marcus Rashford could secure a permanent transfer to Barcelona. The 27-year-old is currently relishing a successful season-long loan at the Camp Nou, with his future at Old Trafford uncertain.

Rashford found himself out of favour under Ruben Amorim shortly after the Portuguese manager's arrival in Manchester last November. Consequently, he spent the latter part of last season on loan at Aston Villa.

Upon his return to Manchester this summer, he was still left out of his manager's plans. As a result, he sought another move away from his boyhood club, whether that be on a permanent or a temporary basis.

The England star's request was fulfilled when Barcelona signed him on a year-long deal, with the Spanish giants also having an option to buy him outright next summer for around £30million.

And former United forward Owen believes the Catalans might decide to activate the clause. Speaking to 247Bet, Owen said: "I think he has definitely got the ability to earn a permanent move there, and he's almost been given a new lease of life now.

"Some would say he's been very fortunate, because he'd been really off his games for a number of seasons. So this is a massive chance, and he's got to grab it with both hands.

"But I think he's very capable and, if his head is in the right place, then I think he will earn a permanent move."

Since his move to Barcelona, Rashford has been on fire, netting five goals and providing six assists in just 12 appearances across all competitions, flourishing under the guidance of Hansi Flick.

That's also despite fierce competition from players like Lamine Yamal and Raphinha. Rashford, who started as a centre-forward in Barca's Champions League match against Olympiakos on Tuesday night, managed to score twice in a 6-1 rout at home.

His focus now shifts to Barcelona's biggest challenge yet, as they prepare to face off against Real Madrid in El Clasico this Sunday afternoon. United, meanwhile, have started to turn the tide in the Premier League as of recent.

While Amorim's future was cast into speculation as a result of a poor start to the season, he has started to prove his worth with the club via a number of positive results as of late.

The Red Devils secured a 2-0 win over a newly-promoted Sunderland AFC ahead of the international break. When Premier League action returned at the weekend, United were also able to steal a 2-1 win over bitter rivals Liverpool at Anfield, much to the rejoice of the red side of Manchester.