Rashford transfer under threat as Barcelona identify Chelsea star as alternative

Marcus Rashford has enjoyed a productive loan spell with Spanish giants Barcelona but his hopes of sealing a permanent move to the Camp Nou appear to be fading ahead of the summer

Barcelona are reportedly interested in a move for Chelsea star Pedro Neto as a possible alternative to Marcus Rashford. The Manchester United forward has spent the last season on loan at the Camp Nou, with an option to make the move permanent for a fee of €30m.

Since then, Rashford has enjoyed a productive season with Barcelona, having scored 10 goals and notched 13 assists in all competitions. Despite that positive form, Barcelona are still keeping their options open and looking at other potential targets.

One of the players who could be considered is the Chelsea winger, Neto. According to reports in Spain, the Portuguese wideman is on the club’s shortlist as they attempt to add to their attacking options.

Chelsea signed Neto back in 2024 in a £54m in a switch from Wolverhampton Wanderers. He has gone on to make 93 appearances for the Blues and has scored on 19 occasions in all competitions.

Neto remains under contract with the Blues until the summer of 2031. The Portuguese winger currently finds himself in hot water following a controversial few weeks.

He has already been hit with a one-match FA ban for his conduct after his sending off against Arsenal. Meanwhile, he could be facing further punishment after shoving a ball boy during the midweek defeat to Paris Saint-Germain, an incident he has apologised for.

“I've watched it back and it doesn't look good,” Chelsea boss Liam Rosenior said. “I understand Pedro's perspective and his want to win, but there are ways you go about it.

"I was so impressed that he wanted to apologise straight away. We all make mistakes, it's about learning from them and making sure they don't happen again."

Elsewhere, Rashford will hope to continue having an impact for Barcelona. Speaking ahead of this weekend’s clash with Sevilla, Barca boss Hansi Flick said: “Marcus was away for a few days and has come back strong. I haven’t decided yet, but he’s a good option [to start].”

Rashford could potentially claim the first league title of his career at the end of the campaign. Barcelona currently sit four points clear of fierce rivals Real Madrid at the top of the La Liga table.

Chelsea in the meantime face a battle to secure a spot in next season’s Champions League under Rosenior. The Blues currently sit fifth in the table and currently three points behind Aston Villa.