Marcus Rashford is in talks to complete a permanent transfer away from Manchester United after his dream move to Barcelona fell through.
Rashford, who featured for England at this summer’s World Cup, hoped to earn a permanent move to Barca after a largely impressive loan spell.
The 28-year-old scored 14 goals and provided 10 assists to help Barcelona retain their La Liga title and go deep in the Champions League.
Barca boss Hansi Flick appeared keen for Rashford to stay at the Nou Camp but a deal always looked unlikely after the Spanish champions spent £70m to sign his England teammate Anthony Gordon from Newcastle United.
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Rashford is therefore due to return to Old Trafford after a break following his World Cup commitments but Manchester United are not planning to reintegrate him into Michael Carrick’s squad.
As a result Rashford, who is available to sign for £40m for clubs other than Manchester City and Liverpool, is searching for a new club.
According to The Sun, Rashford is in talks with Turkish giants Fenerbahce, who are ready to ‘break the back’ to secure his signature.
Fenerbahce are desperate to reel in rivals Galatasaray next season and believe Rashford can help them do just that.
Rashford is in talks with Fenerbahce after being recommended a move to Arsenal by the likes of Paul Scholes, Rio Ferdinand and David Seaman.
Discussing Arsenal’s reported interest in Rashford during the World Cup, Manchester United legend Ferdinand said: ‘I would take Rashford. For £40m, I’m sweeping Rashford off his feet.’
Ex-Old Trafford midfielder Paul Scholes added: ‘That would be a great move, a great move for both parties. I think Arsenal would be a great move for him and the club.’
Mikel Arteta is keen to welcome a new winger to the Emirates Stadium but his current focus is on Real Madrid and Brazil superstar Vinicius Junior.
Meanwhile, Barcelona boss Flick has discussed the club’s decision not to sign Rashford, insisting he will ‘miss’ the England star.
‘You don’t know what happens with players who are on loan – our situation is not easy for that,’ Flick said last week.
‘I appreciate working with him [Rashford]. He is a fantastic player and a fantastic person. The team miss him, I will miss him, but it is life. This is what we have to accept.’
Rashford posted a farewell message to Barcelona on social media, writing: ‘I’m very grateful to everyone at the club for making my time here such a positive and memorable experience.
‘I have enjoyed every moment and I will take many special memories with me.
‘I wish the club and all of its supporters the very best of luck and every success in the season ahead. Visca el Barca.’
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