Rashford move to Barcelona still possible despite Gordon signing

Barcelona have not abandoned their pursuit of Marcus Rashford, Sky Sports News understands, despite completing a move for Anthony Gordon this week. Reports that Gordon's £69.3m transfer replaces a Rashford deal are incorrect. All options remain open for the Spanish club.

Barcelona have until June 15 to activate a £26m option to buy Rashford from Manchester United. Sky Sports News has reported that Barcelona would prefer another loan arrangement. Manchester United, however, refuses to renegotiate the option fee, pushing the Spanish club toward alternative solutions.

Barcelona's next target is Julian Alvarez, the Atletico Madrid striker. Sky Sports News expects the club to make a formal bid for Alvarez once Gordon's signing is complete. Alvarez wants to join Barcelona, but Atletico values him at £130m. Barcelona have already made an informal offer of £61m plus winger Ferran Torres, which Atletico rejected.

The Barcelona hierarchy has more spending power after winning LaLiga. Their summer priorities are a winger, striker, and centre-back. A money-only bid for Alvarez is anticipated soon. While Gordon's arrival changes nothing for Rashford's situation, whether Barcelona successfully signs Alvarez could shape Rashford's future at the club.

Rashford produced 28 goal contributions across all competitions for Barcelona last season as they won the title. Manchester United remain confident he could fetch a higher price elsewhere if no deal is reached by the June 15 deadline, particularly if he performs well for England at the World Cup. Both Rashford and Manchester United are expected to continue working toward securing him a permanent move away from Old Trafford.